MOGADISHU, Somalia — A series of thunderous blasts rippled across the outskirts of Baidoa on Monday as Turkish F-16s were sighted over the southwestern city, with local sources linking the surge in air activity to tightened security around a high-profile political gathering.
Residents described hearing powerful explosions and prolonged gunfire beyond the city limits, while jets believed to be Turkish circled overhead. The exact mission of the aircraft could not be independently verified.
The heightened posture coincided with the arrival of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and senior federal and regional officials in Baidoa for the inauguration of the South West State leadership, an event viewed as politically delicate.
According to local sources, the beefed-up measures—potentially including Turkish air support—were aimed at safeguarding the visiting officials amid concerns about possible attacks or unrest involving forces loyal to South West State President Abdiaziz Laftagareen.
Authorities in Somalia and Turkey did not immediately issue statements addressing the reported deployment or the blasts.
Turkey has a longstanding security partnership with Somalia, offering training and advisory assistance, and has previously helped coordinate protection during major political occasions.
The cause of Monday’s explosions in the Baidoa area remained unclear.
AXADLETM
