Three attackers, disguised as Somali government troops, were also killed in the afternoon firefight, after they assaulted a position guarded by AMISOM and pro-government militia. "The extremists drove up in a white saloon car and engaged AMISOM troops there in a firefight. However, they were unable to gain entry into the position. Three of them were killed, including one would-be suicide attacker," AMISOM said.

The 9,000-strong force is fighting Al-Shabaab insurgents in a bid to stabilize the conflict-torn Horn of Africa nation.