BAIDOA (Kaab TV) – Heavy fighting erupted early Sunday morning on the outskirts of Baidoa as South West State security forces launched an operation against fighters loyal to former South West State President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen, amid escalating tensions in the region.
According to South West State authorities, the Special Police Unit (Birmadka) carried out a planned security operation and seized a camp that had been occupied by forces loyal to Laftagareen. Officials accused the group of being involved in activities that threatened the security and stability of Baidoa and surrounding areas.
The clashes began near Barwaaqo Camp, a location that had reportedly served as a base for South West State Darwish forces before coming under attack.
Reports indicate that intense exchanges of gunfire were heard throughout the morning as rival forces battled for control of strategic positions.
Local residents and eyewitnesses reported that the attacking force suffered significant casualties during the confrontation, although the exact number of those killed or wounded could not be independently verified.
Witnesses also claimed that a military vehicle commonly known as (Abdi Bile) was destroyed and set ablaze during the fighting.
Sources on the ground said the clashes involved units of the Somali National Army stationed in Baidoa, including elements of the 8th and 9th Brigades of the 60th Division, and fighters loyal to former South West State President Laftagareen.
The fighting reportedly resulted in the capture of several combatants, while military officials stated that at least one fighter was taken alive during the operation as shown below in the video.
The latest violence follows days of heightened military movements around Baidoa, where forces aligned with Laftagareen had reportedly been mobilizing in areas surrounding the city. The developments have fueled concerns over a worsening security situation in the Bay Region as political tensions continue to drive armed confrontations between rival factions.
Officials leading the operation claimed their forces achieved significant gains and reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining security in Baidoa. They stated that further operations would continue to target armed groups deemed responsible for destabilizing the region.
The clashes underscore the deepening political and military divisions in South West State, where competing factions continue to vie for influence and control.
Residents fear that continued fighting could lead to further displacement, civilian casualties, and instability in one of Somalia’s most important regional centers.