Reports have emerged stating that there is widespread fear and panic among the residents of Biadoa, as troops from Somalia’s National Army (SNA) are advancing towards Baidoa from two different directions. According to SNA officers, the government troops are rapidly approaching two checkpoints in Baidoa. Currently, security forces loyal to South West State are stationed at the east and west checkpoints, but their fate is uncertain if they engage in clashes with the advancing Somali government troops. The first group of government troops, coming from Buurhakaba district, has already departed for Baidoa, while the other group is reportedly en route from Bardaale district in the Bay region. Sources also indicate that the Somali Federal Government has unexpectedly taken over the administration of Bardaale district, after the previous authority announced that they would now fall under the jurisdiction of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s government. In a press conference held at the airport today, Bardaale district Commissioner Mr. Mohamed Isak Hassan announced that they have decided to work with the Somali Federal Government. It has been reported that a plane carrying military officers and equipment arrived at Bardaale airport today. Troops stationed at the airport have expanded their presence into the surrounding villages, and some have even headed towards the road leading to Biadoa. This increase in troop movement in the Bay region has heightened tensions in Baidoa, leading many locals to flee their homes in fear of potential armed clashes. The ongoing political dispute between the Somali Federal Government and South West State is on the verge of escalating into a full-blown war.
