More than 7,000 people have been displaced within a span of four days in Galmudug State, central Somalia, following the withdrawal of government forces from the area, according to the United Nations refugee agency.
The UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) reported on Thursday that Somali military forces began their withdrawal from locations such as Bacadweyn, Camaara, Caad, and Hiinlabi on March 10, without engaging in any military actions. This sudden move created a security vacuum that was swiftly filled by the presence of al-Shabab, a non-state actor.
The UNHCR issued a “protection and return monitoring flash alert” in Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia, highlighting the consequences of this withdrawal.
“This withdrawal created a vacuum that non-state actor forces swiftly moved to fill,” stated the UNHCR.
As a result, civilians residing in these areas felt compelled to flee, fearing retaliatory attacks from al-Shabab, who may perceive them as collaborators during the government intervention.
The displaced individuals, including the elderly, children, women, and other vulnerable groups, sought refuge between March 10 and March 13 in locations such as Galkayo, Mirjicley, Wisil, and Wajeela. These areas served as safe havens for those affected by the conflict.
The military operations initiated by the Somali government in late 2023 aimed to recapture several locations in the Galmudug region. These areas, including Bacadweyn, Camaara, Caad, and Hiinlabi, as well as other districts near Harardheere and Hobyo, had been under government control for several months. During this period, some regions received access to protection assistance and humanitarian aid.
The UNHCR emphasized the urgent need for humanitarian assistance and protection for those affected by the conflict, particularly vulnerable groups who face heightened risks. The situation has left civilians, who sought safety and security in distant locations, residing in host communities without adequate shelter. Some have been forced to live in open spaces, exacerbating their vulnerability.
