Heavy fighting has erupted in Baidoa, the administrative capital of Somalia’s South West State, after forces loyal to former South West President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen launched an offensive against federal government troops and forces supporting the administration led by Sheikh Aadan Mohamed Nuur (Aadan Madoobe).
Local reports indicate that intense gunfire, explosions and heavy weapons have been heard across several parts of the city. Fighting has been reported around Al-Faras, Boonkaay, Al-Ahmar and areas between Cunaay and Ceel Cabdi Shiraay.
Some reports say Laftagareen-aligned fighters have entered parts of the city and seized several positions, although the extent of their control remains unclear and has not been independently verified.
The renewed confrontation comes amid a prolonged political and security dispute over control of South West State.
Federal forces took control of Baidoa in March, after which Laftagareen resigned as regional president.
A new administration headed by Aadan Madoobe subsequently emerged with federal government backing.
A spokesman for the Laftagareen-aligned forces has called on residents to remain inside their homes while urging opposing fighters to surrender.
The group says its objective is to regain control of Baidoa.
There are no independently verified casualty figures yet from this morning’s fighting.
Earlier clashes in Baidoa in August resulted in civilian deaths and dozens of other casualties, underscoring the potential danger to residents as fighting again spreads through densely populated areas.
Humanitarian concerns
The fighting is unfolding in a city that hosts hundreds of thousands of internally displaced people and is already facing severe humanitarian pressures caused by conflict, displacement and drought.
Aid agencies have warned of serious food and nutrition concerns, making renewed violence particularly dangerous for vulnerable communities.
The escalation could also disrupt humanitarian operations and further restrict movement for civilians seeking food, water and medical assistance.
Authorities have yet to provide a comprehensive official account of the situation, while reports from different sides continue to make competing claims about territorial control.
The situation in Baidoa remains highly volatile, with further developments expected as fighting continues.
