SNA Forces Repel Rebel Attack in Beled-Hawo, Capture 10 Attackers

GOOBJOOG NEWS|GEDO: The Ministry of Defence said Monday national army units in Gedo region have repelled an attack by militia loyal to Jubbaland leader Ahmed Madobe, in the latest flare-up near the border town of Beled-Haawo.

According to a ministry statement, the assault — led by Mahmoud Sayid Aden — took place on the outskirts of the town. Government troops reportedly captured ten of the attackers and overran the positions from which the raid was launched.

Two soldiers, 2nd Lt. Mohamed Hasan Guutaale and Private Ali Mohamed Gooni, were killed in the fighting, while three others were wounded and are receiving medical care. The ministry said the situation is now calm, with army forces still holding their positions and patrolling to protect civilians in Gedo.

The government condemned the militia’s actions and praised the professionalism and bravery of its troops. It urged the fighters to disarm and warned against “acts that undermine national security,” calling on Gedo residents to support the army’s efforts to keep the region safe.

Background
Beled-Haawo has been a long-standing flashpoint between Somali federal forces and Jubbaland troops over political control of Gedo. Clashes in recent years, including in January 2021 and multiple incidents in 2023 and 2024, have often drawn in cross-border dynamics, with Mogadishu accusing Jubbaland of operating from Kenyan territory and Jubbaland accusing the federal government of undermining regional autonomy.

The renewed fighting follows a build-up of Jubbaland-aligned units around Tuulo Aamin village, which, according to earlier reports, prompted fears of confrontation. Monday’s attack is the latest indication that tensions remain unresolved despite intermittent lulls.