KISMAYO, Somalia — Jubaland forces declared victory Wednesday over the Somali National Army (SNA) in Raskamboni, a strategic town near the Kenyan border. Celebrations erupted after a reported successful offensive against SNA troops, who were said to have surrendered in large numbers, according to Jubaland officials.
Jubaland officials shared images and statements claiming that hundreds of federal soldiers had given up, with some fleeing to Kenya. The regional forces accused the SNA of attempting to undermine Jubaland’s autonomy, a claim that has fueled tensions between the regional state and the central government in Mogadishu.
The conflict stems from the recent re-election of Jubaland President Ahmed Madobe, which the federal government in Mogadishu has contested, leading to military confrontations. The situation in Raskamboni has been tense, with both sides deploying troops to the area in recent weeks.
The US expressed concern over the potential for further escalation, which could disrupt the ongoing efforts against the al-Shabaab militant group in the region. The capture of Raskamboni by Jubaland forces is seen as a significant blow to the federal government’s influence in the southern part of Somalia, potentially affecting the broader security landscape.
The exact number of casualties or surrenders remains unclear, as independent verification is challenging due to the volatile conditions. The federal government has yet to officially comment on the claims from Jubaland.
This development adds another layer to the complex political and military dynamics in Somalia, where regional states often assert themselves against the central authority.
HORN LIFE