Security concerns are mounting in the southwestern city of Baidoa as reports emerge of civilians fleeing their homes amid fears of renewed fighting between forces aligned with the Federal Government and troops loyal to former South West State President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen.
Residents and local sources say families, including elders, women, and children, have begun leaving parts of the city and surrounding areas in search of safer locations.
Some were reportedly seen departing with their livestock, reflecting growing fears that the political and military standoff around Baidoa could escalate into a wider conflict.
The movement of civilians comes at a time when tensions remain high following recent clashes that left casualties and heightened insecurity across the city.
Many residents are concerned that another round of fighting could erupt, prompting precautionary departures from neighborhoods considered vulnerable to potential confrontations.
Meanwhile, fresh security forces have reportedly been flown into Baidoa through Shaati Guduud Airport, where they were received by senior military and police officials.
Sources indicate the newly deployed troops are expected to reinforce government forces already stationed in the city.
The deployment is believed to be linked to preparations for possible operations against Darawiish forces loyal to Laftagareen, who are reportedly positioned in areas surrounding Baidoa.
The arrival of additional troops has further fueled speculation that military activity around the city could intensify in the coming days.
The latest reinforcements follow the recent deployment of members of the elite Gorgor force to Baidoa. Reports suggest Gorgor troops were involved in direct clashes with Laftagareen-aligned fighters, marking a significant escalation in the confrontation.
As tensions persist, reports indicate that a government soldier identified as Nuur Ganey, who was wounded during recent fighting in Baidoa, has died from his injuries in Mogadishu.
His death adds to the growing toll from the clashes, although official casualty figures remain unclear.
Government forces and troops loyal to the South West administration continue to face each other in several locations around the outskirts of Baidoa, raising concerns that the fragile situation could deteriorate further.
In a separate development, reports from Diinsoor district in Bay region indicate that an explosion occurred at what was described as a military training facility.
Preliminary information suggests the blast took place in an area where security personnel were undergoing training.
Authorities have not yet confirmed the cause of the explosion or provided details regarding possible casualties, and investigations are reportedly ongoing.
The deteriorating security situation is increasingly affecting civilians. Families leaving Baidoa are reportedly seeking temporary shelter in nearby villages and rural areas, fearing that a larger conflict could engulf the city.
Humanitarian observers warn that continued instability could trigger further displacement and increase demand for emergency assistance, including shelter, food, clean water, and healthcare services.
Baidoa has become the center of a deepening political and military dispute involving the Federal Government and factions linked to former South West State leader Abdiaziz Laftagareen.
The arrival of additional troops and ongoing military movements around the city have heightened concerns that the political crisis could evolve into a broader armed confrontation.
With civilians continuing to flee and both sides maintaining military positions around Baidoa, the situation remains tense and is being closely monitored by local residents, political actors, and humanitarian organizations.