[6][7] In March 1991, towards the end of the Somaliland War of Independence, the SNM took control over the Sanaag region, including its administrative seat of Erigavo from Barre regime loyalists.

[14] This incident set the stage for broader confrontations, compounded by Somaliland’s military mobilization and SSC-Khaatumo’s determination to challenge its authority.

[15][16] Tensions reached a boiling point in December 2024, following months of sporadic clashes and political disagreements over control of the Sanaag region.

The battle began early on December 14, when SSC-Khaatumo forces launched a coordinated assault on Somaliland positions within Erigavo.

[17] The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) later reported that nearly 43,000 people were displaced as a result of the fighting.

[7] Governor Ahmed Abdi Muse declared that Somaliland forces had successfully "repelled the enemy and restored order to Erigavo.

"[21] However, SSC-Khaatumo leadership vowed to continue their struggle for control of the Sanaag region, with one leader stating: "Erigavo remains a contested city, and we will not stop until it is liberated from Somaliland occupation.