By Horn Africa News
Beled –Hawo — The Federal Government of Somalia has strongly condemned the deadly fighting that erupted earlier today in the town of Beled-Hawo, Gedo region, between federal forces and troops loyal to the Jubbaland administration.
In a press statement released by Somalia’s Ministry of Internal Security, the government squarely blamed Jubbaland President Ahmed Mohamed Islam “Madobe” for allegedly ordering the attack on federal security forces stationed at the UK camp, a key federal military base on the eastern outskirts of the town.
“This unprovoked assault has led to the senseless loss of Somali lives,” the ministry said. “We call on the people of Jubbaland, especially residents of Gedo, to unite in rejecting Ahmed Madobe’s destructive actions, which continue to fuel violence and destabilize the region.”
The statement further warned that those responsible for today’s violence would be held accountable, particularly members of the Jubbaland forces allegedly involved in the assault. According to the ministry, the UK camp is under the command of Colonel Abdirashid Janan, a senior federal security officer who arrived at the base earlier this month, on July 22.
While the government did not provide a detailed breakdown of casualties, the clashes reportedly resulted in deaths and injuries on both sides, as well as among civilians caught in the crossfire. The exact number of casualties remains unclear.
Tensions remain high in and around Beled-Hawo following the confrontation, raising fears of renewed fighting between federal forces and those loyal to the Jubbaland administration. Residents report a heavy security presence and growing anxiety amid concerns that the conflict could escalate once again.
The confrontation underscores the ongoing power struggle between Somalia’s central government and regional authorities, particularly in the strategically significant Gedo region, which has long been a flashpoint for federal-regional tensions.
