MOGADISHU (Kaab TV) – According to local residents, militias from clans based in Mogadishu, accompanied by the Gorgor special forces unit that recently seized Baidoa, have been assembled at a camp on the western outskirts of Baidoa, where they are reportedly awaiting additional militias set to join them from Mogadishu.
President Hassan Sheikh, with 38 days remaining in his term, is said to be preparing a new offensive targeting Gedo region in Jubaland, where Villa Somalia is reportedly planning to unilaterally conduct its own elections.
The camp where the militias and Gorgor forces are being gathered is located on the road leading west towards Bardaale.
The militias currently in Baidoa are equipped with weapons and vehicles supplied by Turkey and Egypt.
The South West administration withdrew from Baidoa last week after being forced out of the city, which had served as the seat of the South West administration for more than 14 years.
THE GEDO OFFENSIVE
Well-placed sources have told Kaab TV that Villa Somalia’s plan is to wrest the entire Gedo region from Jubaland’s control, particularly Doolow district, which Jubaland currently administers.
Sources added that Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s plan is to complete the capture of Gedo region and install a hastily arranged election before April 20th.
Reports indicate there is military movement in the direction of Doolow district, where Jubaland-aligned administration and forces are currently stationed.
Additionally, sources based in Kismayo have told Kaab TV that Jubaland is conducting military preparations in Lower Jubba region, the area where Jubaland retains its strongest presence.
Apart from limited areas in Lower Jubba and Doolow district in Gedo region, the remaining areas of Jubaland are controlled by Al-Shabaab, while the districts of Luuq, Garbaharey and Beledhawo — previously taken from Jubaland — are now home to clan militias aligned with the Federal Government of Somalia.