Sunday, May 31, 2026 (Baidoa Online) -Heavy fighting has been reported on the outskirts of Baidoa following clashes between forces loyal to the Federal Government of Somalia and armed elements aligned with former regional leader Abdiasis Lafta Gareen.
Local residents said loud explosions and sustained gunfire were heard near the Eedaw Dhagaal area on Sunday, causing panic and forcing some civilians to remain indoors amid fears of further escalation.
The latest violence comes a day after forces loyal to Lafta Gareen briefly entered Baidoa and reached parts of the city centre before later withdrawing.
Tensions in South West Somalia have been escalating over control of Baidoa and the political direction of the regional administration, amid disputes surrounding federal-backed plans to proceed with elections that opposition figures say lack broad consensus.
There has been no independent confirmation of casualties, and authorities have yet to issue a detailed statement regarding the fighting or current security developments.