Saturday, May 30, 2026 (Baidoa Online) -intense fighting broke out in Baidoa early Saturday morning after forces loyal to Southwest State President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed (Lafta Gareen) launched a coordinated operation in and around the city.
The clashes, which began in the early hours of the day, quickly spread across several neighborhoods as heavily armed forces advanced toward the city center. Witnesses reported sustained exchanges of gunfire and the movement of military vehicles through key parts of Baidoa, prompting many residents to remain indoors amid growing security concerns.
By midday, forces loyal to Lafta Gareen had reportedly entered central Baidoa and taken control of several strategic locations. Local sources indicated that Southwest State security forces had established positions across much of the city and were conducting operations to consolidate their control.
The fighting marks one of the most significant security developments in Baidoa in recent months and has raised concerns about the potential humanitarian impact on civilians. Businesses were largely closed, traffic was disrupted, and residents reported heightened tensions as the situation continued to unfold.
While reports from the ground suggest that forces loyal to Lafta Gareen are now in control of large parts of Baidoa, the overall security situation remains fluid. Independent verification of territorial control and casualty figures has not yet been possible, and authorities have not released official details regarding deaths, injuries, or arrests.
Security officials are expected to provide further information as operations continue and the situation develops. Residents have been urged to exercise caution and avoid areas affected by the fighting.