Baidoa — Somali federal government forces have fully taken control of strategic positions in Baidoa after Darawish troops aligned with the regional administration in Southwest State withdrew from their bases, according to security sources and local officials on Monday.
The withdrawal occurred in areas surrounding Baidoa, the interim administrative capital of Southwest State, where tensions and military movements have intensified in recent days. Witnesses reported that Darawish forces vacated their positions early in the morning without engaging in combat, allowing Somali National Army (SNA) troops to move in and secure key locations, including checkpoints and administrative compounds.
“We saw many soldiers leaving their bases quietly, and shortly after that, government forces entered and took control,” said a resident who requested anonymity due to security concerns. Other residents described a calm but uncertain atmosphere, with increased troop presence and restricted movement in some neighborhoods.
A federal government official, speaking on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to brief the media, confirmed that SNA forces are now in control of the positions. He said the operation was part of broader efforts to reinforce federal authority and improve security coordination in the region, but declined to provide further details on the reasons behind the Darawish withdrawal.
Security analysts and local sources suggest the move may be linked to internal political and security disagreements between officials in Southwest State and the central government in Mogadishu, although no official confirmation has been issued. Some observers believe the repositioning could also be part of a strategic realignment ahead of planned security operations.
The situation remains tense, with fears of potential clashes or instability if rival forces attempt to reassert control. Residents in nearby areas reported early signs of displacement, with some families leaving their homes as a precaution amid uncertainty over the evolving security situation.
Humanitarian organizations warned that any escalation could have serious consequences for vulnerable populations, particularly women, children, elderly people, and internally displaced persons already facing hardship due to prolonged conflict and recurrent drought conditions.
Southwest State authorities have not yet issued an official statement regarding the withdrawal. Meanwhile, federal officials indicated that operations aimed at consolidating control and ensuring stability will continue in the coming days.
The developments come as Somalia intensifies efforts to strengthen federal authority across its member states and address persistent security challenges, including threats posed by armed groups and ongoing political tensions.
