By HAN News Desk
MOGADISHU – Somalia’s federal government has strongly rejected reports that a government-owned helicopter landed in the southwestern city of Baidoa, calling the claims “false, misleading, and politically motivated.”
Senior officials from the presidency in Mogadishu told local media on Tuesday that no helicopter belonging to the Somali National Army (SNA) had been seized, diverted, or operated by authorities in South West State of Somalia.
“The federal government maintains full control of its military assets,” one official stated, adding that “any reports suggesting otherwise are intended to create confusion and undermine national security operations.”
The denial comes in response to earlier statements issued by officials from the South West regional administration, who alleged that a helicopter—reportedly targeted by gunfire near Waajid Airport—subsequently made an emergency or unscheduled landing in Baidoa.
Regional sources claimed the aircraft’s movement raised concerns about unauthorized operations and possible security breaches in the area. However, federal authorities insist no such incident involving an SNA helicopter took place.
The contradictory narratives have intensified existing tensions between the federal government and the South West administration. Analysts say the dispute reflects deeper disagreements over control of regional security operations, coordination between federal and state-level forces, and political influence and administrative authority.
In recent months, relations between Mogadishu and Baidoa have become increasingly strained, particularly over issues related to troop deployments, counterterrorism operations, and local governance structures.
The lack of a unified account has fueled uncertainty among residents and observers, especially as security remains fragile in parts of southwestern Somalia. Areas around Waajid and Baidoa have experienced intermittent threats from armed groups, complicating verification of such incidents.
Security experts warn that conflicting statements from authorities risk undermining public trust and could create opportunities for misinformation to spread.
Independent observers and civil society groups have called on both federal and regional authorities to provide clear, verifiable information regarding the incident. They emphasize that transparency and coordination are essential to maintaining stability and public confidence.
As of now, no independent confirmation has emerged to verify either side’s claims, leaving the situation unclear and highlighting the ongoing challenges in Somalia’s federal-regional relations.
