Somalia: Turkish fighter jets deployed to Baidoa amid reported security fears

MOGADISHU, Somalia — Loud explosions were heard on the outskirts of Baidoa on Monday as Turkish F-16 fighter jets were deployed to the southwestern Somali city amid heightened security concerns during the arrival of Somalia’s top leadership, according to local sources.

Residents said they heard heavy blasts and sustained weapons fire in areas outside the city, while aircraft believed to be Turkish jets were seen operating overhead. The purpose of the air activity was not immediately independently confirmed.

The deployment came as Somalia’s president Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and other senior federal and regional officials gathered in Baidoa for the inauguration of South West State leadership, an event considered politically sensitive.

Local sources said the increased security presence, including the reported use of Turkish aircraft, was linked to efforts to protect the visiting delegation amid fears of possible attacks or instability involving forces aligned with South West State President Abdiaziz Laftagareen.

Neither Somali nor Turkish authorities immediately commented on the reported deployment or the explosions.

Turkey maintains a long-standing military cooperation role in Somalia, providing training and advisory support, and has previously been involved in security coordination during high-level political events.

It was not immediately clear what caused the explosions reported in the Baidoa area.

GAROWE ONLINE