Tog-Wajale, Somali Region (HornCurrent.com) — The security situation in the Somali Region has taken a grave turn after two civilians were shot by Liyou Police forces in the border town of Tog-Wajale, leaving one dead and another critically injured.
According to eyewitnesses, a young man identified as Mohamed Iimaan was fatally shot in the face by a member of the regional security forces loyal to Somali Regional President Mustafe Omer (Cagjar). Hours later, a 14-year-old boy was shot in the heart during continued clashes, further fueling public outrage.
Residents say both victims were unarmed and posed no threat that could justify such lethal force.
Following the shootings, angered citizens stormed the local police station, demanding accountability for the killings. In retaliation, security forces abandoned the post, allowing detainees to escape. The situation quickly escalated as federal troops entered the town and opened fire on demonstrators, resulting in additional casualties.
The violence has left Tog-Wajale on edge, with roads blocked, businesses closed, and residents fearing more bloodshed.
This incident underscores the worsening security crisis under Mustafe Omer’s administration, which has increasingly been accused of targeting civilians instead of protecting them. Across the Somali Region, reports of inter-clan violence, arbitrary shootings, and state crackdowns have intensified in recent months.
Civic leaders and residents are calling on the Federal Government of Ethiopia to intervene immediately to restore order, hold perpetrators accountable, and protect innocent lives.
The situation in Tog-Wajale remains tense as night falls, with federal troops deployed and the population bracing for further violence.
Appeals for Urgent Action
Local communities, rights activists, and political observers are appealing to:
- Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali
- Ethiopian Federal Police
- Ethiopian Human Rights Commission
- Human Rights Watch
- Ministry of Peace (የሰላም ሚኒስቴር)
- Federal Supreme Court of Ethiopia (የኢትዮጵያ ፌዴራል ጠቅላይ ፍ/ቤት)
- Deputy Prime Minister’s Office
to take immediate and decisive action before the Somali Region plunges deeper into instability.
HornCurrent.com will continue to monitor developments in Tog-Wajale and provide updates as the situation unfolds.
