At least 10 soldiers were killed on Sunday in an attack on an army base in central Mali claimed by a terrorist group, security and local sources said.

The camp, in the village of San, was "temporarily occupied by the attackers", a security source told AFP, reporting a provisional toll of "around 10 soldiers killed."

Local residents described violent clashes in the early hours of the morning.

"I can confirm that it was a terrorist attack. We heard loud explosions and continuous exchanges of fire," said a resident of San, declining to be identified. He added that "calm has returned."

Military says situation 'under control'

An Al Qaeda-linked terrorist group claimed responsibility for the attack.

Mali's military said its troops conducted a "vigorous riposte" and had the situation now "under control."