Baidoa Police say families fleeing City are alleged Al-Shabaab associates

Police in Somalia’s southwestern city of Baidoa have said families leaving the city amid growing security concerns are allegedly linked to Al-Shabaab, while urging residents to remain in their homes and avoid panic.

Speaking to the media, Baidoa Police Station Commander Ali Taagey dismissed the reported displacement as being driven by an immediate security threat to ordinary residents. He accused individuals he described as Al-Shabaab sympathisers of contributing to fear and displacement in the city.

Taagey appealed to residents to remain calm and said security agencies would take measures to strengthen security across Baydhabo. He also warned that action would be taken against individuals found to be cooperating with Al-Shabaab.

“Those leaving Baidoa had initially come to the city as displaced people. They should leave us. They are the wives of the New Al-Shabaab. We urge civilians to remain in their homes,” Taagey said.

His remarks come amid reports of families leaving parts of Baydhabo, raising concerns over the security situation and the potential for further displacement.

The police commander called on security personnel to intensify operations to reassure residents and address the fears prompting some families to leave their homes.

He also warned that security officers could be held accountable if they fail to properly discharge their duties in maintaining security in the city.

The statements come against the backdrop of heightened tensions in Baydhabo, a key administrative and political centre in South West State, where security concerns have periodically triggered population movements.

Mustaqbal