BAIDOA, Somalia — July 6, 2026 —The Office of the former South West State President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Lafta Gareen has strongly condemned alleged airstrikes in villages around Baidoa on Sunday, claiming that the attacks caused civilian casualties and destruction of property, according to a statement released in Baydhabo.
According to a press statement issued by the office of former South West State President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Lafta Gareen, airstrikes were carried out in areas surrounding Baidoa earlier today, which the statement described as targeting civilian-populated suburbs.
The statement alleged that helicopters, fighter jets, and drones were used in the operation, resulting in deaths, injuries, and destruction of civilian property. However, these claims have not been independently verified by neutral sources.
The office further claimed that military equipment supplied by Turkey was used in the operation and called on Ankara to review how its defense support is being utilized in Somalia.
The statement urged the international partners to investigate the reported incident and ensure accountability if civilian harm is confirmed.
It called on the United Nations, African Union, IGAD, the United States, the United Kingdom, and other international partners to closely monitor the security and humanitarian situation in the Bay region.
According to the statement, there is concern over what it described as the impact of military operations on civilian populations in areas surrounding Baidoa.
The Somali Federal Government has not issued an official response to the allegations. Turkish authorities have also not publicly commented on the claims at the time of reporting.
Security Context in Baidoa Region
Baidoa and surrounding areas in the Bay region have experienced periodic security operations involving Somali federal forces and their partners, targeting armed groups operating in rural districts.
The region remains strategically important and has seen a mix of military activity and political developments, including high-level government visits and local administrative changes.
South West State has experienced ongoing political tensions and security operations in recent years, particularly involving disputes between regional leadership structures and federal authorities.
International partners, including Turkey, have been involved in training and supporting Somali security forces as part of broader stabilization efforts.
Allegations involving civilian harm during military operations have previously triggered political disputes and calls for investigations from local and international actors.
The allegations issued by the office of former President Lafta Gareen highlight continuing sensitivities around military operations in Somalia’s South West region, particularly where civilian populations are reported to be affected.
If confirmed, such incidents could increase pressure on both federal authorities and international partners regarding operational oversight and civilian protection during security operations.
The statement also reflects broader political tensions within South West State, where competing narratives over security and governance remain unresolved.
