MOGADISHU (Somaliguardian) – Car bomb and gun attack targeted a popular hotel in Somalia’s capital Mogadishu on Friday night, weeks after the government of new President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud threatened to launch an all-out offensive against insurgents.
Armed men entered Hayat Hotel near the city’s Criminal Investigations Department headquarters in KM4 Junction after blasting their way into the heavily fortified complex.
A shootout between security forces and the assailants is underway, with residents reporting heavy exchange of gunfire and subsequent explosions. Details on casualties are still scarce.
Police convoy racing with reinforcements was targeted by another explosion that has caused undisclosed casualties. A police official identified by local media as Mahad Korow was seriously wounded in the attack.
Al-Shabaab armed group in Somalia has immediately claimed responsibility.
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