A group of youths confront each other during a street altercation in Hargeisa, Somaliland. Police have warned that anyone caught attacking Ethiopian migrants will face prosecution following recent incidents. CREDIT: Twitter via Suldan I. Mohamed

Hargeisa (HOL) — Somaliland police warned Saturday that anyone who harms Ethiopian nationals will face prosecution after a group of youths attacked Ethiopian migrants in Hargeisa. Authorities said no serious injuries were reported.

The attack followed a reported increase of Ethiopians entering the city.

“Somaliland and Ethiopia are brotherly nations with no animosity between them. Many Somaliland families live legally in Ethiopia, and likewise, many Ethiopians live legally in Somaliland,” Hiis said. He added that dealing with undocumented migrants is a government responsibility, not something private citizens should attempt.

Earlier this month, the government ordered undocumented Ethiopians to register with immigration authorities to obtain residency permits.

“Recently, we have seen groups of youths targeting individuals. I warn them not to take the law into their hands. It is the government’s responsibility to address undocumented foreigners. Anyone arrested for such actions will face punishment,” Hiis said.

Local residents also denounced the youths’ actions as uncharacteristic of Somaliland society. Mohamed Ducaale, director of Horn Diplomat, alleged that the attackers had been organized from outside the community to damage Somaliland’s relationship with Ethiopia.