Attackers attacked a hotel in Somalia's capital Mogadishu on Friday night, causing an explosion and opening fire. The Islamic extremist group Al-Shabaab has claimed responsibility for the bombing.
A witness told VOA's Somali Service that he heard two or three explosions near the Hotel Hayat at KM4 junction, a busy intersection.
According to initial reports, the perpetrators attacked the hotel with a car suicide bomb before gunmen entered.
One of his witnesses said a shootout was taking place inside the hotel and security forces were trying to fend off the attackers.
It was not immediately clear whether there had been any casualties.
A statement posted on al-Shabaab's website said, "Our fighters have taken over the hotel and are now fighting inside. They are targeting government officials in the hotel.
This group often targets hotels and cafes in Mogadishu used by political and security officials.
