Saturday, 6 June (Baidoa Online)—Military aircraft reportedly carried out airstrikes tonight against suspected Al-Shabaab positions in areas surrounding Baidoa, amid growing concerns over the militant group’s presence near the capital of South West State.
According to local sources, the strikes targeted locations believed to be used by Al-Shabaab fighters in rural areas under Baidoa’s administration. The number of casualties and the extent of the damage were not immediately known, and authorities have yet to issue an official statement regarding the operation.
The strike is believed to have been conducted by international partners supporting the Somali government in its ongoing fight against the militant group Al-Shabaab, although no official confirmation has been issued regarding the identity of the aircraft involved.
The reported airstrikes come as security concerns intensify following claims that Al-Shabaab has expanded its presence across several towns and villages along the Buurhakaba–Baidoa corridor.
Local accounts indicate that the group has established positions in areas including Mooda -Moode, Karoroogi, Daynuunay, Dambalka, Gasarta , and locations near Bay-Burjeed on the outskirts of Baidoa. Sources further claim that militants are operating within close proximity to the city from multiple directions, raising fears of increased insecurity around the regional capital. These claims have not been independently verified.
Baidoa remains one of Somalia’s most strategically important cities, serving as the administrative capital of South West State and a key center for government and security operations.
The latest developments underscore ongoing security challenges in the region as Somali forces and their international partners continue efforts to counter Al-Shabaab’s activities and prevent threats to major population centers.
The Federal Government of Somalia and regional authorities have not yet released official information regarding the reported airstrikes or the current security situation around Baidoa.
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