MOGADISHU (Somaliguardian) –Fierce exchange of gunfire heard inside an upscale hotel in Mogadishu’s Liido beach after militants stormed the compound on Sunday afternoon.
Heavily armed gunmen used a car bomb to blast their way into Elite Hotel on Liido beach and stormed the compound.
Fierce exchange of gunfire heard inside the hotel building after militants barricaded themselves in higher floors of the hotel, firing at government troops who rushed to the scene to rescue officials and politicians feared to be trapped inside.
More than 10 people are said to have been killed in the attack including government officials. Among the dead included the director of regional relations for the Ministry of Information Abdirisak Abdullahi Abdi.
More than 30 are said to have wounded in the attack, who have been rushed to hospitals in the capital. Minister of public works Ahmed Washington, singer Faiza Bela of Hegan band and other renowned figures are among the wounded.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Education Abdullahi Godah Barre is said to have survived an assassination attempt after blast targeted his convoy near the town of Balad-hawo in Gedo region.
The story is developing follow further updates on Somaliguardian.com
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