Heavy Fighting Breaks Out on the Outskirts of Baydhabo

BAYDHABO – Reports from Baydhabo, the temporary capital of the South West State, indicate that heavy fighting occurred last night at around midnight near the city, involving government forces and troops loyal to the former president of the administration, Abdicasiis Hassan Mohamed (Lafta-gareen).

The fighting reportedly began after Lafta-gareen's loyal forces launched an attack on a checkpoint protecting the city of Baydhabo. The confrontation lasted for a short period, with heavy and light weapons being used.

Local sources have reported that the fighting caused casualties, including deaths and injuries on both sides, however, there is currently no official figure confirming the extent of the losses.

This tension follows the political changes that have occurred in South West State, particularly after government forces took over the power from the previous administration led by Lafta-gareen. This has led to a split among the administration's forces, with some joining the government and others still supporting the former leadership.

Additionally, the recent election in Baydhabo that selected the new leader of the South West Government, Sheikh Aadan Mohamed Nur (Madoobe), has further intensified the political conflict in the region.

The forces loyal to the former administration have previously stated that they do not recognize the outcome of that election, threatening to carry out an operation they described as one to “liberate” the city of Baydhabo, where government forces are currently stationed.

The situation in Baydhabo is currently calm, but there are still fears that tensions may resurface, as forces are conducting movements in the area where the fighting took place.