Somalia’s Ministry of Defence says federal forces have regained full control of Baidoa, the largest city in South West State, after heavy fighting with forces loyal to former regional president Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen.
The ministry said the attackers used explosive-laden vehicles and that 30 fighters were killed. It also alleged that Laftagareen’s forces fought alongside the armed group al-Shabab, a claim made by the government. Laftagareen’s camp had earlier said it captured the city centre.
Key developments:
- Federal forces say opposition fighters were driven from Baidoa.
- Fighting reportedly damaged homes and displaced civilians.
- The clashes follow a prolonged political dispute involving President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and constitutional reforms.
- Baidoa remains a key humanitarian hub hosting hundreds of thousands of displaced people.
ℹ️ Al Jazeera
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