Heavy Fighting Erupts in Baidoa as Federal Forces Clash with Forces Loyal to Former South West Leader
Wararka Soomaaliya
BAIDOA, Somalia — Heavy gunfire was heard across parts of Baidoa on Monday morning after forces loyal to former South West State leader Abdicaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen clashed with forces affiliated with the Federal Government of Somalia.
Witnesses in the city reported intense gunfire in several neighborhoods, sparking fear among civilians. Businesses closed their doors, while traffic and public movement dropped sharply after the fighting began.
Preliminary reports indicate that forces supporting Laftagareen entered the city from multiple directions and engaged units of the Federal Government forces stationed in Baidoa.
Faahfaahinta
A local businessman told Dalsan TV that the pro-Laftagareen forces entered Baidoa from two directions, with fighting intensifying as the confrontation continued.
Casualties Remain Unconfirmed
The number of people killed or wounded in the fighting has not yet been independently verified. It also remains unclear which side has full control over the areas where the clashes took place.
Saamaynta
Statements circulated by the opposing sides have made conflicting claims about the situation, but those claims have yet to be independently confirmed.
Residents said the gunfire had occasionally subsided before intensifying again. Military movements have also been reported across the city, raising concerns that the fighting could spread to additional neighborhoods.
Political Dispute Escalates into Armed Conflict
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