Friday, May 22, 2026 (Baidoa Online) - Forces loyal to Southwest State President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed “Lafta Gareen” said they carried out a planned overnight operation at the Barwaaqo camp on the outskirts of Baidoa, where fighters from the Salbalaar 2 militia and allied armed groups were reportedly based.
According to a statement released by the force commanders, the operation inflicted heavy casualties on the militia, with more than 15 fighters reportedly killed and several others wounded.
The forces also claimed to have fully captured the Barwaaqo camp following what they described as a brief but intense confrontation that forced the armed group out of the area.
Officials leading the operation stated that the offensive is part of ongoing efforts aimed at regaining control of territories in Southwest State and strengthening security in the region.
There has been no independent verification of the reported casualties