Wednesday , June 3, 2026 (Baidoa Online) -Heavy fighting broke out on Wednesday in parts of Mogadishu's Howl-Wadaag District between Somali government forces and troops reportedly loyal to former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire, according to local sources and eyewitnesses.
Initial reports indicate that the clashes erupted near the Dabka Junction and the Barmuuda neighborhood, close to the residence of Member of Parliament Jaafar, where Khaire was reportedly staying overnight.
Residents described hearing intense gunfire and heavy weapons fire as the confrontation spread through the area, creating panic among civilians and forcing many families to remain indoors or flee to safer locations.
Witnesses said government security forces launched operations around Howl-Wadaag, an area where opposition figures have recently been holding political meetings amid growing tensions over the country's political future.
Military movements were also reported around Sayidka Junction, a strategic intersection that serves as one of the key access routes to government institutions and the Presidential Palace. Additional security forces were seen deploying to several sensitive locations across the capital.
Sources familiar with the situation said high-level security meetings were held earlier in the day to discuss the deteriorating security environment and planned opposition demonstrations. However, details of those meetings have not been officially disclosed.
Unconfirmed reports further suggest that security operations may be targeting residences associated with opposition politicians, although no official statement has been issued by federal authorities regarding such claims.
The exact cause of the fighting remains unclear, and there has been no immediate confirmation from the Federal Government of Somalia or representatives of the opposition regarding the incident.
Casualty figures have not yet been released, and the full extent of the damage remains unknown as fighting and security operations continue in parts of the district.
The clashes come at a time of heightened political tensions in Mogadishu, with disputes over governance, electoral processes, and calls by opposition groups for renewed political dialogue contributing to an increasingly fragile security situation.