Mogadishu – Several mortar shells were fired early this morning at different areas in Wadajir district, Mogadishu, with some reportedly landing inside the AUSSOM military base in Halane, located near the perimeter of Aden Adde International Airport.

According to eyewitnesses near the airport, at least four loud explosions were heard in quick succession, causing panic among residents and airport staff.

In total, six mortar rounds are believed to have been launched, although the exact impact points of two of them remain unclear.

Preliminary reports indicate that some of the shells may have hit parts of the heavily fortified Xalane base, which houses personnel from the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) and international organizations.

However, the extent of the damage and any casualties have not been officially confirmed.

Shortly after the explosions, the militant group Al-Shabaab claimed responsibility for the attack through its affiliated online platforms, stating that their fighters had targeted the Halane base with mortars.

So far, neither Somali security forces nor AUSSOM officials have released a statement regarding the attack, including any possible damage or injuries resulting from the shelling.

This incident marks the latest in a series of similar mortar attacks by Al-Shabaab targeting strategic locations in the Somali capital.

Over the past year, the group has launched repeated mortar strikes on Halane camp and areas surrounding Villa Somalia, the presidential palace.

The attack underscores the persistent security challenges facing Mogadishu despite ongoing operations by Somali and allied forces to contain the threat posed by the insurgents.

Security agencies are expected to launch an investigation into the incident and enhance protective measures around key installations in the city.