Luuq Situation Overview 

The Luuq clashes in early July 2024 between the Marehan/Rer-Hassan and Rahanweyn/Moalin-Wayne clans illustrate how a single incident can rapidly escalate into full-scale violence in densely populated areas. What began as an isolated killing quickly intensified into armed confrontations within Luuq, resulting in 35 fatalities, including two NGO staff members, and injuring 27 more within just 48 hours.

The violence also led to the burning of over 200 buildings and the displacement of more than 40,000 residents, many of whom fled to the remote village of Yurkud, an area difficult for NGOs to reach, adding further challenges to relief efforts.

Tensions have recently flared again due to revenge killings, driving fresh waves of displacement and affecting families who had cautiously returned. Currently, around 5,000 households (HH), including approximately 3,000 IDP HH, remain scattered across accessible areas within Luuq town, such as Duyacley, Kulmiye, and Xeerokowad. However, areas like Neefsoy, Bashiiro, Yurkud, and Ceelboon remain particularly hard to reach, and recent reports indicate that around 50 IDPs have now fled to Dollow.

While senior government officials intervened to contain the conflict, the reconciliation process remains fragile. The assassination of a Rahanweyn/Moalin-Wayne clan elder on 30 September has reignited tensions, suggesting a potential for further escalation.

These incidents highlight the ongoing risk of violence, necessitating close monitoring and active risk management from NGOs in the region. Humanitarian actors must conduct regular safety checks with their teams and adapt their contingency plans to navigate this complex security landscape.