BAIDOA (Kaab TV) – Federal government forces that recently took control of Baidoa are reportedly enforcing strict security measures against the Mayor of Baidoa City of the South West State Administration who previously served under former South West President Abdiasis Laftagareen.
The Mayor of Baidoa City, Abdullahi Ali Watiin, has reportedly been placed under house arrest after being suspected of helping facilitate the movement of forces loyal to former President Laftagareen, who were allegedly withdrew Baidoa and headed toward Doolow.
Sources familiar with the matter say it remains unclear how long the governor will remain under house arrest, and no official statement has yet been issued by the federal government explaining the move or confirming whether he will be brought before a court.
One of the local residents, Qaasin Wadani, said: “I strongly condemn the illegal arrest and looting carried out by Somali government forces against the Governor of Baidoa District and Mayor, Abdullahi Ali Watiin.”
He added “What happened today in Baidoa is not positive and does not reflect good governance. It is the beginning of troubling events that could harm state-building and law and order.”
Meanwhile, the Deputy Minister of Security for South West State, Mohamed Yusuf, is also reportedly under house arrest after his security detail was withdrawn.
Some reports indicate that weapons in his possession were confiscated and that he may soon be transferred to Mogadishu.
Earlier this week, the newly appointed South West State Security Minister, Mohamed Hassan ‘John’, announced during a cabinet meeting of the newly established interim administration that weapons would no longer be allowed inside Baidoa following a series of killings and other security incidents in the city.
“Anyone found carrying weapons will face strict action,” said the minister, widely known as “John.”
There are also reports suggesting that Baidoa District Governor Abdullahi Watiin may be transferred to Mogadishu in the coming days, although this has not yet been officially confirmed.
So far, neither federal government officials nor South West State authorities have publicly commented on these measures, increasing concerns over the tense security and political situation in South West State.
The situation remains volatile as residents await an official statement from the authorities clarifying the reasons behind these actions and what steps will follow.