BAIDOA — Heavy fighting that erupted in Baidoa early Thursday morning has reportedly ended after several hours of intense clashes between forces aligned with South West State President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen and opposing forces.
The confrontation began with a series of explosions, followed by heavy exchanges of gunfire reported in several parts of the city. Residents described the fighting as among the most intense seen in Baidoa in recent times, raising fears of a broader escalation.
Forces Reportedly Advance Into Baidoa
According to preliminary reports from local sources, forces aligned with President Laftagareen managed to advance into parts of Baidoa during the fighting.
Their reported movement into the city prompted a significant security response from opposing forces, who attempted to prevent them from establishing positions inside Baidoa.
After several hours of fighting, the Laftagareen-aligned forces were reportedly pushed back and forced to withdraw from the areas they had entered.
Local reports further indicate that the retreating forces were pursued as they moved toward positions outside the city.
Deaths and Injuries Reported
The clashes are believed to have resulted in deaths and injuries among the fighting forces, although the exact number of casualties remains unclear.
No independently verified casualty figures have been released so far. Reports circulating from local sources should therefore be treated with caution until confirmed by authorities, medical officials, or independent observers.
The fighting also caused significant concern among civilians. Residents reportedly remained indoors as explosions and gunfire were heard in different parts of Baidoa, while normal movement and commercial activity were disrupted.
Situation Remains Tense Around Baidoa
Although the main confrontation has reportedly ended, the security situation in and around Baidoa remains tense and potentially volatile.
The reported pursuit of forces withdrawing from the city could create the possibility of renewed clashes if the opposing sides remain in close proximity.
Security forces are expected to remain on heightened alert as authorities assess the situation and attempt to prevent further violence.
Political and Security Tensions
The latest fighting comes amid continuing political and security tensions surrounding South West State, where disagreements between rival political and security actors have increasingly contributed to instability in Baidoa.
The confrontation could further deepen political divisions and increase concerns about the security situation in the South West State capital.
Authorities have not yet issued a comprehensive official statement explaining the circumstances that triggered Thursday morning’s clashes.
It also remains unclear whether any military positions or strategic locations changed hands during the fighting.
Developing Story
The situation remains fluid, and additional information is expected as local authorities, security officials and other sources provide further details.
Casualty figures, the identities of the forces involved, and reports regarding military movements remain subject to independent verification.
This is a developing story. More updates will follow as credible information becomes available.
