Unknown gunmen seized control of a hotel in Somalia’s capital, Mogadishu, which was preceded by two car explosions and gunfire, police said today.
“Two bombs exploded near a hotel. One hit the fence near the hotel and the other hit the gate. We believe the terrorists are inside,” said a local police officer.
Two intelligence officials also confirmed the incident. The terrorist group al-Shabaab, which is linked to al-Qaeda, claimed responsibility for the attack. So far, there are no details about the victims, but explosions were also heard after breaking into the hotel.
The hotel in the area is a popular gathering place for MPs and government officials. Today’s attack is the first major attack since President Hassan Mohamud took office in May.