Explosion Targets Army Officer’s Residence in Jowhar; Soldier Killed in Separate Attack

Monday , June 1, 2026 (Baidoa Online) -A series of security incidents were reported in and around the city of Jowhar, raising concerns over the security situation in the area, according to local sources and eyewitness accounts.

According to security sources, an explosion targeted the residence of Commander Haroole, an officer serving with the Somali National Army (SNA), in the Horseed neighborhood of Jowhar. Sources indicated that the commander sustained injuries in the blast. However, the extent of his injuries remains unclear, and officials have not yet provided details on his condition.

Eyewitnesses in the area reported hearing a loud explosion, followed by the arrival of security personnel who cordoned off the scene and launched an initial assessment of the incident.

In a separate incident, a hand grenade was reportedly thrown at the headquarters of the Somali National Army’s 3rd Brigade in Jowhar. While the attack caused concern among residents living nearby, there has been no official confirmation of casualties or damage resulting from the explosion.

According to local residents, security forces responded swiftly to the scene and began investigating the circumstances surrounding the attack.

Meanwhile, armed assailants reportedly killed a soldier affiliated with the Federal Government of Somalia on the outskirts of Jowhar. Witnesses said the attackers seized the soldier’s rifle and military equipment before fleeing the area.

The identity of the victim has not yet been released, and authorities have not disclosed further details regarding the attack.

In response to the recent security incidents, security agencies announced the arrest of several individuals suspected of involvement in acts of insecurity that occurred in Jowhar. Officials said investigations are ongoing to determine whether the detained suspects were connected to any of the reported attacks.

Authorities have not yet issued a comprehensive statement regarding the incidents, and no group has claimed responsibility for the attacks as of publication.

The developments come amid ongoing efforts by Somali security forces to strengthen security and counter armed groups operating in parts of the country.