Jubaland forces claim control of Beled-Hawo after heavy fighting with federal troops

KISMAYO, Somalia — Jubaland regional forces on Monday said they had taken full control of Beled-Hawo, a key town in the Gedo region near the Kenyan border, following heavy clashes with troops loyal to the Somali federal government.

The fighting erupted earlier in the day after two military helicopters reportedly landed in the town, transporting senior Somali security officials, including Abdirashid Janan—a former Jubaland security minister—who has recently been appointed by the federal government as head of intelligence for the Gedo region.

In a statement released through Jubaland-affiliated media outlets, regional authorities confirmed their forces had seized the district administration headquarters and taken over security operations in the entire town.

"The Jubaland security forces are now in full control of Beled-Hawo. Several members of the militia responsible for destabilizing the town have been captured, and operations are ongoing to track down the remaining elements, including Abdirashid Janan," the statement said.

While Jubaland did not disclose details about casualties, local sources reported that at least five soldiers from both sides were killed and several others, including civilians, were wounded during the intense fighting, which involved heavy weaponry.

By late afternoon, the town was reported to be relatively calm, but residents expressed fear that the violence could reignite at any moment, given the tense standoff between federal and Jubaland forces.

Beled-Hawo has been a frequent flashpoint in the long-standing power struggle between the federal government in Mogadishu and the Jubaland administration, led by President Ahmed Mohamed Islam, also known as Ahmed Madobe.

GAROWE ONLINE