Multiple mortars target Mogadishu’s Halane compound

Multiple mortar rounds targeted the highly secured Halane compound in Mogadishu on Monday morning, local media reported. Sirens were heard in several districts of the city following the attack. Somali security officials have not yet commented on casualties or damage.

Reports indicate that at least five mortar shells landed inside the camp, with some impacting nearby neighbourhoods in the Wadajir district of the Banaadir region. Security forces are said to be conducting operations in connection with the attack. Shortly after the mortar fire, warning sirens at the airport were activated, signalling a security threat at Mogadishu’s Aden Adde International Airport.

This incident follows a recent surge in mortar attacks across Mogadishu. A few weeks ago, shells were fired in the Hamarweyne and Hamarjajab districts, resulting in civilian casualties. Prior to that, an attack targeted the vicinity of the presidential palace, with a mortar shell striking the National Theatre and injuring a staff member.

Al-Shabaab has recently intensified operations in the country and fighting is ongoing in several states, particularly Hirshabelle state.