**South West State Authorities Report Repelling Attack on Baidoa**
**BAIDOA, Somalia** — Authorities in Somalia’s South West State reported that government and regional security forces successfully repelled an attack on the city of Baidoa on Thursday morning.
Mohamed Sheikh Abdullahi, a spokesman for the South West State, stated that the militant group Al-Shabaab initiated the assault in an attempt to disrupt local security.
“Early this morning, the enemies of peace from Al-Shabaab launched a foolish attack on the city of Baidoa, with the aim of disrupting the security and stability of the population,” Abdullahi said.
According to the spokesman, the attack was countered by a joint effort involving Somali national forces, regional security personnel, and local residents. Abdullahi characterized the operation as a failure for the militants and warned against future attempts to destabilize the city, which serves as a major political and commercial hub in southwestern Somalia.
“Abandon any hope of destabilising Baidoa or attacking its people,” Abdullahi said, adding that the military response should serve as a deterrent. He further urged residents to remain calm and resume their daily business activities, asserting that authorities remain in control of the security situation.
While federal and regional officials attributed the violence to Al-Shabaab, the incident remains subject to conflicting reports. Forces loyal to a former president of the South West State have separately claimed responsibility for the assault, creating uncertainty regarding the identity of the combatants involved.
There has been no independent confirmation of the claims, and no official details regarding casualties have been released.
Article source: allafrica.com | Image credit: Shabelle Media Network
