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Al-Shabab targets military base with mortar fire near Baidoa, intensifying its campaign against Somali government forces in the Southwest State. The attack, which occurred late Sunday in the Barujed area on the outskirts of Baidoa, marks the latest in a string of offensives by the al-Qaeda-linked militant group as it seeks to destabilize strategic regions ahead of Somalia’s 2026 elections.
According to local sources, multiple mortar shells were fired at a fortified military installation jointly manned by Somali National Army (SNA) troops and Southwest State security forces. The base, located in one of the most heavily guarded zones near Baidoa, was reportedly struck by several projectiles, causing panic among nearby residents.
While the Somali government and Southwest State authorities have yet to release an official statement on casualties, eyewitnesses reported seeing ambulances and emergency vehicles rushing to the scene. Al-Shabab, through its affiliated media channels, claimed responsibility for the attack and alleged that it inflicted significant casualties on the soldiers stationed at the base. These claims have not been independently verified.
The Barujed area, also referred to as Burjeed in some reports, has become a flashpoint in recent months due to its proximity to Baidoa, the interim administrative capital of Southwest State. The region serves as a critical corridor for military logistics and civilian movement, making it a frequent target for insurgent activity.
Security analysts say the mortar attack is part of Al-Shabab’s broader strategy to disrupt government operations and undermine public confidence in state institutions. The group has increasingly relied on indirect fire tactics—such as mortars and improvised explosive devices (IEDs)—to strike fortified positions without engaging in direct combat.
This latest incident follows a similar assault on the same base just weeks ago, during which Somali forces reportedly repelled an attempted ground incursion. The repeated targeting of the Barujed base underscores the group’s determination to reclaim influence in the Bay region, where government forces have made significant territorial gains over the past year.
Residents of Baidoa expressed concern over the renewed violence, with many fearing that the attacks could escalate into broader confrontations. “We heard loud explosions and saw smoke rising from the direction of the base,” said one local resident. “People are scared. We don’t know what will happen next.”
The Somali government has vowed to continue its military campaign against Al-Shabab, with support from international partners including the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) and U.S. Africa Command. However, the group remains resilient, exploiting rural terrain and local grievances to maintain its foothold in several regions.
As the country prepares for national elections, the security situation in areas like Baidoa will be a key test of the government’s ability to ensure stability and protect civilians. The mortar attack serves as a stark reminder that despite recent progress, Somalia’s fight against terrorism is far from over.