By HAN News Desk
JOWHAR — Reports from central Somalia indicate that three men hailing from the Bay and Bakool regions were killed in the city of Jowhar, the administrative capital of Hirshabelle State. The incident has sparked widespread concern among community members, who are calling for urgent intervention to prevent further violence.
According to local sources, the men — who had been living and working in Jowhar — were allegedly targeted due to rising tensions linked to recent clan-related disputes. Witnesses say the attack took place late Monday evening in one of Jowhar’s residential areas, though the exact circumstances remain unclear.
Community elders from Bay and Bakool have strongly condemned the killings, urging the Hirshabelle administration and federal authorities to bring the perpetrators to justice and to ensure the safety of residents from all Somali regions living within the state.
Meanwhile, the recent clashes in Wanlaweyn district, located in the Lower Shabelle region, have reportedly taken a new turn, raising fears of broader conflict between neighboring communities. Observers say the fighting appears to be linked to long-standing grievances over land and local governance.
Civic leaders and peace activists have appealed to both the federal and regional governments to take immediate action to de-escalate the situation and promote dialogue among the affected communities.
Critics have accused the Hirshabelle administration of failing to protect civilians and to act swiftly in preventing the Jowhar killings. However, state officials have not yet issued an official statement regarding the incident.
Human rights advocates have warned that unless concrete steps are taken to address the growing tensions, the violence could further destabilize areas already struggling with insecurity and displacement.
