Fresh airstrikes were reported on the outskirts of Baidoa, the capital of Somalia’s Bay region, on Friday night, further heightening fears among residents as the city grapples with growing political and security tensions.
The spokesperson for the Southwest State administration confirmed that airstrikes had taken place near Baidoa but stopped short of providing official details on casualties or damage.
The spokesperson also accused the Federal Government of Somalia and Turkey of carrying out the strikes in areas under Southwest State control.
“The hostility that Hassan Sheikh and Turkey have toward the people of Southwest State is evident in the indiscriminate airstrikes they are carrying out against civilians in Baidoa and its surrounding areas.
The strikes that occurred yesterday afternoon and last night are examples of this,” the spokesperson said.
Images circulated on social media appeared to show large craters reportedly caused by the explosions, although the claims and images have not been independently verified.
The reported strikes have triggered fresh concern among residents of Baidoa and nearby communities.
Local sources say some families have begun avoiding areas they consider vulnerable to attack, while others have reportedly fled their homes amid fears of further violence.
The incidents come at a time when Baidoa has been at the center of escalating political and military tensions.
The city and its surroundings have witnessed increased security deployments and clashes linked to a deepening dispute between rival political factions in Southwest State, contributing to instability and uncertainty across the region.
Humanitarian concerns are also growing. If the airstrikes and ongoing hostilities continue, aid agencies and local leaders fear a worsening displacement crisis, with increasing demand for food, clean water, shelter, and medical services.
Many residents were already facing difficult living conditions before the latest escalation.
Local residents have urged all parties involved in the conflict to avoid actions that could endanger civilians and instead pursue dialogue and a political solution to resolve the crisis.
They are also calling for a transparent investigation to determine the locations targeted, those responsible for the strikes, and the extent of any civilian casualties or damage.
Government institutions, the Southwest State administration, and humanitarian organizations are expected to play a critical role in protecting civilians and assisting those forced to flee their homes.
