Tuesday November 12, 2024
FILE – The main entrance to Guriel, a town in Somalia’s Galgaduud region
Mogadishu (HOL) — Two Ethiopian nationals were killed Monday in Somalia’s Guriel, Galgaduud region, following an altercation involving a man reportedly dressed in the uniform of the Somali federal forces, sparking an exodus of Ethiopian labourers from the area.
Witnesses stated that one Ethiopian man died immediately after being shot, while the second, critically injured, succumbed to gunshot wounds later in the day. The double murder has ignited fears among Ethiopian labourers in the region, leading groups of Ethiopians—particularly from the Oromo community—to hastily evacuate Guriceel and nearby towns. Large vehicles were seen transporting Ethiopian nationals carrying the bodies of the victims to safer areas. Similar evacuations have been observed across Galgaduud, reflecting rising concerns within the community.
The Oromo community, largely engaged in the local scrap metal industry in Guriel, has recently faced warnings to limit their business activities. Local leaders and community figures had urged caution in this line of work, noting increased local tensions and advising against the high-profile presence in public trades.
At present, the motive behind the shootings remains unclear. The Galmudug regional authorities have initiated an investigation to determine the cause of the altercation and locate the suspect, who remains at large. Security forces are working to provide additional protection and are reportedly increasing patrols in response to growing concerns over the safety of labourers in the area.
