Somalia Army, Rebels Clash Over Baidoa Control

Government forces and rebel fighters have engaged in intense clashes over control of Baidoa, the largest city in Somalia’s southwestern state. The army claims it drove the rebels out of the city after several hours of fighting.

Somalia’s Defence Ministry said fighters loyal to former regional president Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen attacked government positions before dawn on Monday (August 17). The ministry claimed around 30 attackers were killed.

However, Laftagareen’s side claimed its forces had taken control of Baidoa city centre. Local residents said several homes and buildings were damaged in the clashes, while several injured people were taken to hospitals.