MOGADISHU (SD) -Reports are emerging about a battle between Al-Shabaab (AS) and government forces that took place last night in the Elasha Biyaha area on the outskirts of Mogadishu, with further details still coming in.

The clash occurred after Al-Shabaab launched a direct attack on a military police base located there, specifically at a place known as Arbacow. This was followed by direct combat between the two sides.

Local sources have reported hearing the exchange of gunfire between the two sides but cannot confirm the extent of the casualties due to the nighttime conditions and limited information available.

Somali security officials have stated that they repelled the attack from Al-Shabaab and pushed back the attackers.

Al-Shabaab claimed victory in the battle, stating that they inflicted significant losses on government forces, though no official casualty figures have been provided.

The situation is reported to be calm today, with government and ATMIS forces conducting operations in the Elasha Biyaha area and its surroundings.