The Jubbaland administration has issued a strong statement following a series of coordinated attacks allegedly led by Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and his loyalist forces on civilian areas in the Gedo region, specifically targeting the towns of Beled Hawo and Doolow districts.
For nearly a week, Beled Hawo has endured relentless assaults from armed units stationed at the UK base on the outskirts of the town. According to Jubbaland officials, these forces are not part of the Somali National Army and are reportedly under the command of Somalia President, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who was flown into the base aboard a military aircraft despite ongoing airspace restrictions that have grounded civilian flights across the region.
Early yesterday, these forces launched a direct offensive on Beled Haawo, which is under the control of Jubbaland government troops. The attack triggered widespread displacement, significant property destruction and panic among residents due to the indiscriminate use of heavy weaponry. Eyewitnesses report that homes abandoned by fleeing civilians were looted, underscoring the disregard for local communities and the rule of law.
Meanwhile, in Doolow, Jubbaland’s security installations came under attack late last night by intelligence units loyal to President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. The government views this as a deliberate attempt to destabilize Jubaland and provoke prolonged conflict through unlawful military aggression.
In its statement, the Jubbaland government reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding its citizens, defending its territory and resisting all illegitimate power plays. Officials warned that these attacks undermine the unified national effort against the extremist group Al-Shabaab especially following the recent loss of Maxaas district to the militants.
Jubbaland expressed deep concern over the politicization of military force, which it says is being used to settle political scores rather than to combat terrorism. The government called for national unity and lawful conduct in the fight against extremism, urging all stakeholders to prioritize peace and stability over personal ambition.
