Saturday October 17, 2026
Baidoa (HOL) — Forces loyal to former South West State President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen have captured several districts and strategic areas in Bay region as fighting with federal and regional government forces spreads beyond Baidoa.
Laftagareen-aligned Dervish forces took Qansahdheere earlier this month, seized Buurhakaba after heavy fighting on Thursday and entered Berdaale, Diinsoor and Awdiinle after government-aligned troops withdrew, according to residents.
advertisements
Most of the reported advances occurred without major fighting, except in Buurhakaba, residents said. Heavy clashes in Buurhakaba forced federal and current South West administration forces to withdraw after Laftagareen’s fighters attacked from several directions.
In a statement Friday, Laftagareen’s office praised the operations and described them as part of an effort to restore security and political authority in areas his supporters consider part of the former administration’s legitimate control.
“The objective of these operations was to ensure security, restore stability, and uphold law and order,” the statement said.
Laftagareen’s office also thanked residents of the affected districts for what it described as support for his forces.
“The President specifically commends the people living in those districts and areas for demonstrating resilience, courage, and a firm resolve to defend their freedom, dignity, and rights,” the statement said.
The statement pledged to continue what it described as efforts to protect residents and preserve South West State’s constitutional institutions.
“The Government of South West State of Somalia reaffirms its commitment to protecting the lives, honor, and dignity of the people, defending statehood, ensuring security, and upholding the constitutional institutions of the South West State of Somalia,” it said.
The current South West administration has disputed Laftagareen’s claims and has accused his forces of cooperating with al-Shabab. However, Laftagareen has repeatedly denied any alliance with the militant group.
Federal forces took control of Baidoa earlier this year during a political struggle over South West State’s leadership, forcing Laftagareen from the regional capital. His supporters have since launched repeated attacks against federal troops and forces loyal to the current administration.
The confrontation has produced several rounds of heavy fighting in Baidoa since August, causing civilian casualties and disrupting medical services.
Buurhakaba is particularly significant because it lies on the main road between Baidoa and Mogadishu, an important route for trade, civilian travel and military movements.