Mogadishu, Somalia – Multiple reports have surfaced following a series of mortar shell attacks that struck various districts in the Banadir region last night, causing widespread panic among residents in the Somali capital.

Witnesses reported hearing nearly 10 mortar shells, which landed in districts including Xamarweyne, Xamarjajab, Waabari, and Yaaqshiid. Some of the mortars reportedly fell in residential areas close to Villa Somalia, the presidential palace, though the exact extent of casualties remains unclear. Social media posts showed images of destroyed homes in civilian neighborhoods, highlighting the impact of the attack.

Somali police have responded, stating that the explosions were part of an intimidation campaign by the militant group Al-Shabaab aimed at instilling fear in the city’s residents.

As of this morning, the situation has returned to calm, with security forces continuing investigations to track down the perpetrators. The attack follows a similar incident last week in the Wadajir district, where mortars targeted areas near Aden Adde International Airport.

This latest assault comes amid a rise in terrorist activities in and around Mogadishu, with recent bombings reported in Elasha Biyaha and parts of Garasbaaley district. Security forces remain on high alert as they work to ensure the safety of the city’s residents.