[1] The SNM, formed as a response to Siad Barre's authoritarian rule, sought to challenge the government's control over northern Somalia.

The battle was part of a broader struggle for independence and autonomy, particularly for Somaliland, which was seeking to separate from the rest of Somalia.

Despite being heavily outnumbered, the SNM forces used guerrilla tactics and their knowledge of the terrain to launch effective assaults.

During the battle, the SNM fighters, many of whom were civilians such as teachers, students, and businessmen, found themselves surrounded by government troops.

In the early hours of the morning, 36 SNM soldiers managed to break free from the government's encirclement and continued their fight eventually retreating.