As rival factions within Southwest State’s security forces turned their weapons on one another, heavy gunfire broke out in parts of Baydhabo on Monday. Witnesses reported intense exchanges of heavy weapons near the city’s main livestock market.
Numerous on-the-ground sources claim that troops loyal to the Southwest administration itself and Southwest State security forces, allegedly backed by Somali National Army (SNA) units, are involved in the conflict. Although the reason for the unexpected altercation is still unknown, locals worry that it might spread to other areas.
“Since early morning, we have heard continuous sounds of heavy artillery and automatic weapons near the livestock market,” said one resident who spoke on condition of anonymity. “People are fleeing their homes. We do not know who is fighting whom, but the gunfire is very close.”
Normally a thriving commercial center on the outskirts of Baydhabo, the livestock market area has turned into a virtual battlefield. Witnesses described civilians scurrying for safety as armed militias moved between alleyways and set up temporary positions.
Internal divisions within its security apparatus have long plagued Southwest State, which has its administrative headquarters in Baydhabo. A concerning aspect of the conflict is the alleged involvement of Somali National Army elements, who are purportedly affiliated with the federal government. This raises concerns about the region’s command-and-control systems.
Regarding the fighting, neither the Somali National Army nor the leadership of Southwest State has released an official statement. The number of casualties is still unknown, but unverified reports from nearby hospitals indicate that several people have been hurt.
The escalation coincides with increased political tensions in Southwest State, where disagreements over resource distribution and leadership have occasionally escalated into violent confrontations. Baydhabo locals have called on both sides to use moderation and save civilian lives.