Balad Hawo (Dawan Africa) – Clashes erupted in the town of Balad Hawo, located in the Gedo region, on Tuesday morning between Jubaland forces and Somali federal troops. The fighting reportedly started after Abdirashid Janan, the newly appointed National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) chief for Gedo, arrived by helicopter earlier in the day with accompanying troops.
Jubaland authorities have stated that the confrontation was triggered by an attack on their forces, which they successfully repelled.
“Currently, Balad Hawo is under the control of Jubaland forces, and several militia members who had been disrupting the city’s security have been captured. Jubaland forces are now pursuing the remaining militants, including Abdirashid Janan, who arrived by military helicopter this morning,” said a statement from Jubaland TV.
Jubaland also confirmed its forces retain control of the town.
The clash comes amid rising tensions between the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) and Jubaland authorities, with Gedo region—where Balad Hawo is located—becoming a focal point for political disputes. The appointment of Janan as NISA chief for Gedo has further exacerbated the divide between the central government and Jubaland. Janan, who previously served as the Minister of Security for Jubaland, has long held significant influence in the region.
Puntland has also commented on the situation, accusing the Federal Government of launching the attack on Balad Hawo.
“The actions taken today by Prime Minister Hamse and President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud in Balad Hawo are regrettable. The focus should have been on defending other regions like Hiiraan, rather than escalating tensions in Balad Hawo,” said a Puntland official.
As of now, there has been no official response from the Federal Government of Somalia regarding the developments in Gedo.
