Puntland Rwgional State authorities have dismissed claims that three Ethiopian nationals were killed in the region, describing reports as false. While they acknowledged a minor altercation involving stone-throwing at immigrants, they confirmed no fatalities had occurred.
On 29 January, Puntland police issued a statement rejecting accusations that Ethiopians had been killed, stressing that there had been no deaths in the region. They also warned against such false claims and reiterated their commitment to safeguarding all residents.
However, Ethiopian nationals in Puntland reported a different narrative. According to their accounts, three Ethiopians were killed in separate incidents over two days. The first death, on 26 January, allegedly involved government forces, while two others were reportedly beaten and killed by the public in Bosaso on 27 January.
Additionally, Ethiopian migrants in Puntland have raised concerns about arbitrary arrests, abuse, and looting, especially in the towns of Garowe, Bosaso, and Kalkaw. One report claims that over 500 Ethiopians were detained in Garowe alone.
This incident adds to a growing pattern of challenges faced by Ethiopian refugees in Puntland. In mid-2024, local authorities had ordered the expulsion of Ethiopians living without refugee status, citing concerns about their numbers and alleged economic impact.
Tensions have been further exacerbated by the recent maritime agreement signed between Ethiopia and Somaliland, which Somalia opposes. The political situation has reportedly increased hostility toward Ethiopians in the region, with rising threats and violence targeting them.