**Title: Somali Army Clashes with Local Forces for Control of Baidoa**
**Date: September 28, 2026**
Intense clashes erupted in the city of Baidoa, Somalia, on Monday, as government forces engaged with fighters loyal to the ousted regional president, Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen. The conflict has escalated significantly, with reports of fighter jets and drones being deployed during the hostilities.
The confrontation began early in the day when thousands of local fighters entered Baidoa, prompting the national army to respond. Senior army commander Mohamed Ali stated that government forces confronted the insurgents, inflicting heavy casualties and driving them out of the city. According to Ali, the local fighters were equipped with vehicles loaded with explosives and explosive drones.
The ongoing violence in Baidoa is part of a larger struggle for control in the South West State, which has seen increasing instability in recent weeks. The Somali government, led by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, had previously sent troops to oust Laftagareen from power in March. Since then, Laftagareen has made several attempts to retake control of the area, including Baidoa, the administrative capital.
In a statement, Laftagareen praised his fighters for their efforts, asserting that their goal was to “maintain security and restore stability and diversity” in Baidoa. However, the clashes have had dire consequences for civilians in the area. Local resident Hussein Abdifatah reported that the fighting made it difficult for civilians to flee, as hostilities erupted throughout the city.
Medical teams at Baidoa’s Bay Regional Hospital have reported receiving a significant number of casualties due to the violence. The medical NGO Doctors Without Borders (MSF) confirmed that three individuals, including a healthcare worker, have died as a result of the clashes. MSF also noted that they treated 69 patients affected by the violence, including five children. The organization expressed concern over the accessibility of medical care, as roads leading to hospitals were reportedly blocked.
Dr. Elshafie Mohammed, MSF’s Somalia representative, condemned the ongoing violence, stating, “This is the third time in six weeks that fighting has erupted in Baidoa, with devastating consequences for civilians. It is unacceptable that civilians and healthcare are being caught up in violence.” The organization highlighted that a health facility was severely damaged during the clashes, and an ambulance was looted. Two medical staff members working with MSF were also reported to have been robbed, with one sustaining injuries.
The situation in Baidoa remains tense, with ongoing clashes posing a significant threat to the safety and wellbeing of the local population. The conflict underscores the challenges facing Somalia as it grapples with political instability and violence in various regions. As the government continues its efforts to assert control, the humanitarian impact of the clashes raises urgent concerns for the safety of civilians and the provision of essential services in the affected areas.