Mogadishu – Reports from the city of Balad Hawo in Somalia’s Gedo location, close to the Kenyan border, verify that unidentified armed assailants assassinated an outstanding clan elder, “Adam Mahmoud” before fleeing the scene.

Security forces in Balad Hawo have launched an investigation into the killing, even though the cause remains uncertain. The city’s administrator, “Shire Abdul Kenan”, prolonged his condolences, describing Mahmoud as a key parent in maintaining peace both in Balad Hawo and throughout the wider Gedo region.

The assassination comes simply weeks after unrest in Balad Hawo, where tensions between the Somali authorities and Jubaland government sparked fierce clashes. The fighting ultimately led to the expulsion of Jubaland forces, who retreated across the border into Kenya.