Somalian Government, Al-Shabab Say Over 100 Killed In Deadly Battle

Somalia's government and al-Qaeda-linked fighters both claimed more than 100 people were killed on Friday in their deadliest battle since the government launched a major military offensive against the extremists in August.

According to the government, more than 100 al-Shabab extremists were killed after attacking a Somali National Army base in the Galgudud area town of Galcad, which was recently retaken by the rebels.

The official statement disclosed that seven soldiers were killed in the "intense attack," including an officer from the elite, US-trained Danab brigade, but the military maintained control over the area.

The administration thanked foreign friends for their assistance in the struggle.

Sheikh Abu Musab, a spokesman for the Al-Shabab extremists, said that at than 150 Somali soldiers and commanders were slain.

The claims of either side could not be independently corroborated, but Galcad resident Abukar Uluso told The Associated Press that heavy gunfire was exchanged.

"It was during the dawn prayer when I heard the sound of explosions followed by an exchange of gunfire," Uluso said.

"Most fatalities were among the two sides, and the civilian casualties are minimal since the attack took place inside the army base."

Last year, Somalia's government declared "total war" on al-Shabab.

The extremist organisation has thousands of members and has long controlled sections of central and southern Somalia.

It frequently conducts high-profile attacks in Mogadishu, the capital.

In recent months, the government claimed victory in retaking several areas in what has been regarded as the most important offensive in more than a decade.

Security experts have warned that controlling the territory will be difficult.