Heavy fighting broke out in Baidoa, the capital of Somalia's South West State, early Monday morning as forces aligned with former regional president Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen assaulted positions held by federal troops and forces backing the current administration of Sheikh Adan Mohamed Nur Madobe.

Residents reported explosions, sustained gunfire, and the use of heavy weapons across multiple neighborhoods. Local sources said at least 29 people were killed, including 12 civilians and 17 soldiers, with 45 others wounded. Eight civilian homes sustained damage from rocket-propelled grenades and mortar fire.

Somalia's Defense Ministry stated that Somali Armed Forces repelled the attack, which it described as involving Al-Shabaab terrorists and Laftagareen-aligned militias. The ministry claimed the attackers suffered heavy losses and that federal forces retained full control of the city. Laftagareen forces, however, claimed gains and accused the federal government and Turkish forces of conducting airstrikes that hit civilians.

The clashes represent the latest escalation in a political and military dispute over control of South West State. Federal forces seized Baidoa in March after Laftagareen left office, and Madobe assumed leadership with federal backing. Reports indicated possible drone strikes and the use of an explosive-laden vehicle targeting a hotel.

Casualty figures and control of specific areas could not be independently verified immediately. Both sides urged residents to stay indoors as sporadic fighting continued into the day.