Heavy shelling and fierce gun-battle have reportedly erupted in Kahda and Sarkusta, two strategic areas on the outskirt of Mogadishu’s Darkenley district after Al-Shabaab militants launched mortar attacks on government bases in the area, prompting fierce gun-battle between the two sides.

Reports say the raging gun-battle and the artillery exchanges in the area have greatly affected the movement of people and transportation between Mogadishu and the rebel held Afgoye corridor.

Militants fired mortars reportedly slammed into several areas of Dharkenley district, with no reports of any casualties or damages.

Reports also say mortars fired by the Somali forces struck into Al-Shabaab bases in Sinka-der, Taredisho Jabad-gel and Hayat, all in the rebel held Elasha Biyaha area.

Several mortars also struck at areas in Ex-Control Afgoye on the outskirt of Mogadishu, according locals in the area.