Explosions and heavy gunfire erupted near Somalia’s presidential palace on Saturday as al-Qaida-linked al-Shabab militants attacked Godka Jilacow prison, which also houses the regional intelligence unit.

The assault occurred just hours after the federal government lifted long-standing roadblocks in Mogadishu, intended to protect key sites.

Residents reported smoke and gunfire, with the city’s calm shattered after months of relative security.

Al-Shabab claimed responsibility, saying it released prisoners, while Somali forces repelled the attack, killing several militants, the Associated Press has reported.

Casualty figures remain unclear as security forces secured the area and ambulances responded, amid ongoing concerns about al-Shabab’s threat in central and southern Somalia.