A South African man has been killed in an attack in Mogadishu.

The announcement was made by the Somali government, however, South African officials were yet to confirm this.

The man, whose identity is still unknown, is thought to be among three foreigners who died when militants stormed a United Nations compound in the capital.

Five others, including a UN staff member, were also killed.

African Union (AU) troops in Somalia have now secured the building.

Al Shabaab insurgents forced their way inside after a suicide bomber blew up a car at the entrance.

Witnesses described a gun battle that lasted an hour.

AU forces and government troops drove the Al Shabaab rebels out of the city almost two years ago.

However, the militants have continued to launch occasional attacks.

eNCA