At least 12 people were reportedly killed and several others wounded after heavy fighting erupted in Baidoa on Thursday between forces loyal to South West State leader Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed “Laftagareen” and troops aligned with the Federal Government and the camp led by Speaker Sheikh Aden Mohamed Nur (Aden Madobe).
The clashes began in the early morning hours, with intense gunfire and heavy weapons fire reported across several parts of the city.
Residents described a tense security situation as fighting spread through multiple neighborhoods, including Towfiiq, Bukriye, Baalyaale, Alfaras, Boonkaay and Al-Ahmar.
According to local reports, forces loyal to Laftagareen launched a multi-front offensive on the city, triggering fierce street battles.
Civilians were forced to remain indoors as gunfire and explosions echoed across affected areas, while conflicting claims emerged over which side controlled key neighborhoods.
Among those reportedly killed was Dahir Moallin Hassan, said to have been the head of security for Sheikh Aden Madobe.
Sources in Baidoa also reported casualties on both sides of the conflict, although the exact breakdown of military and civilian deaths has not been independently verified.
Hospitals in the city were reportedly overwhelmed with casualties suffering from gunshot wounds and other injuries sustained during the fighting. Because the clashes occurred inside populated areas, concerns remain high that the civilian death toll could rise.
Later reports indicated that some of the Laftagareen-aligned forces that had advanced into the city withdrew from positions they had earlier captured after suffering casualties.
Reports of deaths and injuries among the attacking forces have also emerged, though exact figures remain unclear.
Witnesses said military aircraft were seen flying over Baidoa during the clashes. However, the purpose of the flights and the identity of the aircraft have not been officially confirmed.
The Federal Government has maintained that military operations in South West State are linked to the broader campaign against Al-Shabaab, while opponents describe the fighting as a confrontation between government-backed forces and troops loyal to Laftagareen.
Several civilian homes were reportedly damaged during the clashes, and fires were reported in parts of the city. Many families remained trapped inside their homes as fighting continued throughout the day.
The situation in Baidoa remains fluid, and casualty figures, damage assessments, and battlefield developments could change as more information becomes available.