Jowhar, Somalia – A fierce battle erupted late yesterday afternoon and continued into the night in areas near Ceel-baraf, in the Middle Shabelle region, between two clan militias, sources reported on January 25, 2025.
The conflict has led to an unspecified number of casualties and injuries, with both sides reportedly receiving various forms of assistance, escalating fears of further violence. Local security officials and residents are on high alert, fearing an expansion of the conflict.
Abdirahman Mohamed Guure, a former member of the Hirshabelle assembly, highlighted that the violence near Ceel-baraf follows a disturbing pattern of previous clashes. He stressed the urgent need for a lasting peace solution in the region.
The border between Hiraan and Middle Shabelle has long been a hotspot for clan-based conflicts, with numerous peace agreements falling through.
This latest outbreak of violence comes on the heels of a tragic event at the end of last year where six Somali National Army soldiers were killed in the same area over clan revenge while returning from the frontlines against Al-Shabaab and heading to the Hiraan region.
The ongoing skirmishes underline the volatile security situation in central Somalia, where clan disputes frequently undermine peace efforts and contribute to the broader instability in the region.
