Military movements have reportedly intensified in the coastal town of Barawe in Lower Shabelle, amid growing tensions between Somalia’s Federal Government and the South West State administration led by Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen.
The federal government is reportedly considering shifting its military operations in South West State towards Barawe, following delays affecting an offensive by government forces targeting Buurhakaba district.
Local reports indicate that two units from the 21st Battalion of the Gorgor Commandos arrived in Barawe on Monday.
Their deployment is said to be part of preparations for a possible new military operation, although authorities have not officially disclosed its objectives or when it might begin.
At the same time, Darwish forces loyal to Laftagareen are reportedly advancing towards Barawe from several directions. The movements have raised concerns that the competing deployments could lead to armed confrontations in and around the town.
Both sides are said to be reinforcing their positions as the political dispute over control and authority in South West State continues. Forces aligned with Laftagareen have also reportedly been conducting operations aimed at strengthening their presence on the ground.
The latest developments come as relations between the federal government and the South West administration remain strained, with the political rivalry increasingly carrying security implications for the region.
Areas where the opposing sides have troops and local supporters could face heightened instability if the military build-up continues.
Reports have also suggested that both sides are receiving backing from foreign governments. However, the nature, scale and sources of the alleged support have not been independently established.
The Federal Government has separately accused forces loyal to Laftagareen of having links to Al-Shabaab. Those allegations have not been independently verified and remain claims made by the federal authorities amid the wider political confrontation.
Barawe could consequently become an important focal point in the unfolding political and security contest in South West State if the reported troop movements develop into a broader military operation.
For now, the situation in the town and surrounding areas remains fluid. There has been no official confirmation that a new offensive is imminent or that clashes between the rival forces are unavoidable.
Nevertheless, the reported deployments have heightened concerns about the potential consequences for civilians and security across the region.