Somali Clans Attack Warlord’s Forces

Clan militias opposed to Gen. Mohamed Farrah Aidid attacked the warlord’s forces Wednesday at Somalia’s most important airport and in the south-central city of Baidoa.

One faction leader claimed to have captured the airstrip at Bali Dogle, 60 miles southwest of Mogadishu, after heavy fighting. There was no independent confirmation.

In Baidoa, businessmen contacted by satellite telephone said at least 10 people were killed and 20 wounded when another clan militia tried to retake the city of 300,000 people from Aidid, who captured it three weeks ago.

The businessmen, all speaking on condition of anonymity, said Aidid’s men appeared to have repulsed the attack, though scattered fighting continued.