Somalia imposes night curfew, weapons ban in Baidoa after political tensions

BAIDOA, Somalia — The Federal Government of Somalia has imposed a nighttime curfew in Baidoa, banning the carrying of weapons in the city during evening hours except by security forces, officials said.

The move comes as authorities tighten security following political tensions linked to recent changes in the South West State administration.

Somali Police Commissioner Asad Osman Abdullahi, who has held meetings with police officers in Baidoa in recent days, ordered an immediate strengthening of security across the city.

Under the directive, no weapons are allowed within Baidoa at night, except for authorized forces such as police and officers from the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA). Authorities also ordered increased night patrols and stricter inspections of vehicles and individuals entering the city. 

Police have been tasked with maintaining internal security in Baidoa, while the Somali National Army is operating on the outskirts to reinforce defenses, officials said.

Armed groups that have not yet been formally integrated into national forces were instructed to remain in their bases during the integration process and not to bring weapons into the city.

The measures come as federal authorities assume direct control of Baidoa and move forward with plans to organize one-person, one-vote elections, following weeks of political and security developments in South West State.

GAROWE ONLINE