PoWs Captured by Somaliland Refute Torture Claims in Press Conference
Captured Soldiers From Somalia Denounce Fake News and Call for Peaceful Solution to Las Anod Crisis
Robleh Mohamud Raghe
March 24, 2023
In a recent press conference held at Somaliland's Correctional Services regional headquarters in Burao, Togdheer, prisoners of war (PoWs) captured by Somaliland's army during the Las Anod battle on March 18th refuted claims that they had been tortured. These allegations were propagated by pro-Somalia propaganda outlets - affiliated with the leaders of the Las Anod rebellion - which circulated doctored images and videos on Twitter, falsely accusing Somaliland of violating international law.
The prisoners from Somalia, who appeared to be in good health, claimed that they had been treated with respect and dignity as fellow ethnic Somalis. They expressed appreciation for the care they had received, emphasizing that they did not feel like outsiders and were treated with the same level of respect as Somaliland citizens. The PoWs urged those propagating fake news to cease their actions immediately and work toward finding a peaceful resolution to the Las Anod crisis.
The spreading of false information has riled up citizens from Somalia who believe that Somaliland is violating international law by torturing PoWs from Somalia captured in the Las Anod battle on March 18th.
Upon their arrival in Burao, the prisoners received medical care, food, and clothing. Col. Mohamud Mohamed Aarsade, the highest-ranking captive, stated that it was fake news that they had been sentenced to death or tortured. In addressing these false allegations, the PoWs emphasized the importance of truth and transparency in the face of a complex and evolving conflict.
As the Las Anod crisis continues to unfold, it is crucial to remain vigilant against the spread of misinformation and propaganda. Individuals from Somalia disseminating such false information should be held accountable for their actions. By refusing to heed calls for a ceasefire and actively contributing to the destabilization of the Horn of Africa, the forces behind the Las Anod rebellion expose themselves as the true aggressors in this conflict. A peaceful and lasting resolution can only be achieved through a commitment to the truth and a genuine desire to find common ground.
The Somaliland Journal will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as more information becomes available.
Robleh Mohamud Raghe is a writer, analyst, marketing executive, and former communications aide to the 4th President of Somaliland, Ahmed Silanyo. You can follow him on Twitter at @RM_Laf. For news tips and inquiries, feel free to reach out at [email protected]