The Ethiopian Somali Regional State has confirmed for the first time that troops trained by the Federal Government of Somalia have entered Ethiopian territory and are currently undergoing a formal bilateral process.
The region’s security chief, Abdulkadir Rashid Duale, stated that the troops recently arrived in Jigjiga after crossing the border between Somalia and Ethiopia. He noted that the troops were deployed in groups and are currently subject to the established procedures and agreements between the two nations.
He explained that the troops did not initially cross into Ethiopia under a clearly defined process confirming the purpose of their movement, but efforts are now underway to align the situation with the laws and protocols of both countries.
According to him, the matter is being handled by the legal and diplomatic authorities of Somalia and Ethiopia, who are working toward a formal resolution.
Duale also stated that verified news and official information regarding the issue would be shared with the public, while warning against the spread of unverified reports that could cause confusion. These troops had recently been stationed within the Somali Regional State but have now been moved to the city of Dire Dawa, according to available information.
Reports also indicate that the leaders of Somalia and Ethiopia have discussed the status of these troops, with the possibility that they may be airlifted back to Somalia.
These soldiers were among thousands trained this year in the Galgaduud region—troops the government stated were intended to fight the Al-Shabaab group.
After their training concluded, hundreds of these soldiers defected to Ethiopia, reportedly taking with them the weapons the government had issued to them upon completion of their training.
Somaliland standard
