According to the ministry, SNAF positions came under attack at 5 a.m. (0200 GMT) by armed elements using vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices.
The ministry said the attacking force comprised a mix of al-Shabaab militants and militias loyal to the President of Southwest State Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen.
“SNAF responded professionally and decisively, repelling the attack and thwarting the assailants’ attempt to destabilize the security and stability of Baidoa,” the ministry said in a statement.
Military forces seized weapons and vehicles used in the attack and were conducting clearance operations to secure the city and track down remaining fighters in parts of Baidoa, the statement said.
“The Ministry of Defense will provide the Somali public with further details regarding the attack and the outcome of the operation once it has concluded,” it said.
Somali troops have controlled the city since March, when they seized control of Baidoa and prompted the resignation of Laftagareen.
Residents confirmed that heavy fighting erupted in Baidoa on Monday morning as SNAF forces clashed with armed militias loyal to Laftagareen, alongside al-Shabaab elements.
While local opposition figures claimed to have captured the city, military officials denied the claim and confirmed that security operations remained ongoing.
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