MOGADISHU, Somalia — Heavy fighting erupted between Somalia’s Federal Government Forces (FGS) and Jubaland regional soldiers in Balad Hawo of Gedo regon.
The clash on Tuesday began after regional forces blocked helicopters carrying Abdirashid Janan, the newly appointed FGS intelligence chief for Gedo region.
In a statement, Jubaland authorities accused FGS troops of launching a surprise attack on Balad Hawo, threatening stability in the region.
They said helicopters originally donated for counter-terrorism were controversially used in the assault to destabilize peaceful areas controlled by Jubaland forces.
Jubaland also accused President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of personally authorizing the attack, warning it could further destabilize the region.
The Federal Government of Somalia has yet to respond to the allegations.
Gedo remains a hotspot amid ongoing power struggles between the Federal Government and Jubaland over upcoming elections.
