BAIDOA– Initial reports indicate that heavy fighting has erupted in Baidoa, with both sides using a variety of heavy weapons. The intense conflict began near the livestock market and is between forces calling themselves the “South West State Liberation” group, backed by the Somali National Army (SNA), and security forces loyal to South West State President Abdiasis Laftagaren. The opposition Military Command claims that their units have infiltrated into parts of Baidoa and have defeated the South West State security forces. However, the Military Command of the “South West State Liberation Group” has stated that their operations will not target important landmarks such as the airport and presidential palace, where troops from the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) are stationed. In response, South West State Spokesman Hassan Abdi Mohamed has stated that the security forces have successfully repelled the attack launched by the Somali Federal government troops, and that the attackers have been utterly defeated. The Ports Minister of the Somali Federal Government, Abdikadir Mohamed Nur, has called on the residents of Baidoa to remain on high alert and prepare to receive the Somali Federal troops who are reportedly stationed on the outskirts of the town. Reports from Baidoa also indicate that some locals have begun to flee their homes in search of a safe haven, as heavy gunfire has been heard from villages in the town. The situation in Baidoa remains tense, with the sound of heavy weapons being heard. It is difficult to determine the official number of casualties resulting from the intense fighting, as conflicting reports are being received from both sides.
