Joint SNA, South West Forces’ Operation Targets Armed Group near Baidoa

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Somali federal forces and troops from South West State have launched security operations on the outskirts of Baidoa targeting armed fighters loyal to the region’s former president.

Regional officials said the operations were aimed at strengthening security around Baidoa and preventing attacks they alleged had been carried out from positions held by the armed group.

The South West administration said it would continue joint operations with federal forces to restore stability and prevent further security incidents, stressing that it would not tolerate what it described as threats to public order.

The developments come amid heightened political tensions in South West State following the recent leadership transition, with security remaining fragile in parts of the region. The Federal Government has maintained that its operations are intended to preserve stability, while critics have previously raised concerns over the use of security forces in politically sensitive disputes.

There was no immediate comment from representatives of the forces loyal to the former regional president.

The situation around Baidoa remained fluid, with no immediate reports of casualties.