Government forces and regional fighters have exchanged fire in the Somali city of Baidoa.
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Somalia’s Defence Ministry says at least 30 opposition fighters were killed after attackers targeted government troops using vehicles loaded with explosives.
It is some of the worst fighting Baidoa has witnessed since central government troops seized the city from the control of the South West State. These latest clashes saw fighters loyal to former South West State president Abdiaziz Laftagareen – who resigned in March – return to the area to confront the central government forces.
The violence is part of a wider political struggle between Somalia’s national government in Mogadishu and regional leaders demanding greater political control and decision-making powers.
Baidoa is home to many displaced people who have fled conflict, drought and hunger in other parts of Somalia.
The city is already facing a serious humanitarian crisis, with high levels of child malnutrition.
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