Beledhawo (KAAB TV) – Fierce fighting has once again broken out in the strategic border town of Beledhawo, located in the Gedo region of southwestern Somalia. The renewed clashes pit Somali Federal Government forces against troops loyal to the Jubbaland administration—continuing a tense military standoff that has persisted in recent days.
Local residents confirmed to media outlets that heavy gunfire erupted in the area surrounding the UK camp, a key military base in the town where Federal Government troops, led by commander Abdirashid Janan, are reportedly stationed. The sounds of gunshots and sporadic explosions have echoed across the town, creating panic among the civilian population.
As of Thursday morning, the situation on the ground remains volatile. Eyewitnesses report that the conflict is ongoing, although the full extent of casualties and damages from the latest round of fighting has yet to be officially verified. Neither side has issued a formal statement detailing their losses or strategic positions.
In recent days, the Jubbaland administration has reinforced its military presence in Beledhawo, claiming that the move is aimed at improving local security and preventing further instability. However, tensions have escalated following accusations from Abdirashid Janan, who serves as a senior commander in the area, alleging that Jubbaland forces have launched deliberate attacks on the city. He condemned the alleged offensive as provocative and unacceptable.
This latest escalation follows the deadly clashes that occurred on the 22nd of this month, which resulted in multiple casualties, including among civilians and combatants on both sides. The conflict underscores the fragile nature of the relationship between Somalia’s Federal Government and the semi-autonomous Jubbaland region—a rift often intensified by disputes over control of strategic locations such as Beledhawo, which lies on the border with Kenya.
As the standoff continues, residents of Beledhawo remain trapped between rival forces, with fears mounting over further violence and a growing humanitarian toll.