BARDAALE, Somalia — Heavy fighting broke out on the outskirts of Bardaale in Somalia’s Bay region on Monday between Southwest State forces and local militias, sources reported to HornLife.
The intense clashes followed an attack by local militias on outposts held by Southwest State’s Darawish forces on the town’s periphery, triggering a fierce response. Both sides are deploying various types of weaponry, with gunfire echoing loudly within Bardaale, creating a tense atmosphere and widespread fear among residents.
No official casualty figures have been confirmed as the conflict continues in Bardaale, an area that has seen repeated clashes between the two groups. Local militias, previously driven out of the town, are now attempting to recapture it, having conducted significant mobilization and movements in recent days before launching a major assault early on Monday.
Armed militias had also blocked transport routes into Bardaale in recent weeks, disrupting access for civilians and local authorities. The recurring conflict between Southwest State forces and local militias in Bardaale stems from long-standing governance disputes, which have escalated into armed confrontations.
The violence exacerbates an already volatile situation in the Southwest State, where tensions over electoral disputes and ongoing battles against Al-Shabaab militants persist.
Al-Shabaab recently launched a significant attack between Baidoa and Deynunay, though Southwest State’s Darawish forces, backed by Somali National Army troops, repelled the assault.
HORN LIFE
