At least 11 killed as two bombs explode at hotel in Somali capital Mogadishu

At least 11 people have been killed after two bombs exploded in a hotel in the Somali capital Mogadishu. Al Shabaab claimed responsibility for Sunday’s attack on the Sahafi Hotel which is used by politicians and government officials. "Mujahideen (fighters) entered and took over Sahafi Hotel where enemies lived,“ said Sheikh Abdiasis Abu Musab, a spokesman for the Islamist group. Police said a car filled with explosives rammed the entrance and was followed by a second blast. They said the hotel owner, a politician, a former military commander, a journalist and other civilians were killed.

Some government officials are inside the hotel. The death toll may rise.

Police officer Ismail Nur

Security officers exchanged fire with gunmen inside the hotel for about three hours after the assault began. African Union’s AMISOM force, which has been heading a campaign against al Shabaab, said troops were "still mopping (up) floor by floor”, and there were four storeys. The hotel is in a busy area of the capital known as K-4, and plumes of smoke could be seen above the city. "We got phone calls from staff hiding in hotel rooms saying that there are several injured people in the hotel,“ police officer Ismail Nur said.

Africa al Shabaab HOTEL