MOGADISHU: Somali forces have ended siege at an upscale hotel in country’s capital Mogadishu, police told CNN, following an attack from unidentified gunmen that left at least 20 dead. Somali security forces had been trying to clear Hayat Hotel of attackers since Friday evening when gunmen stormed building following gunfire and large explosions in area. At least 20 people have been killed and at least 50 others injured, Police Major Yasin Haji told CNN earlier. A number of fighters had taken hostages and fired at security forces from inside hotel, Haji said. Attackers had used hostages “as human shields” slowing police efforts to end “terrorist siege,” Haji said. Police had first cleared first and top floors, while gunmen held out on middle two floors, he said.

Two security officials, including Mogadishu intelligence chief Muhidin Mohamed were wounded in attack, Maj. Hassan Dahir a police officer told CNN. Al Qaeda-linked terrorist group Al-Shabaab claimed responsibility for attack in a statement posted on its affiliated online sites, saying its fighters managed to take over hotel after blasting their way into building. CNN has not independently confirmed claim.Agencies

Published in The Daily National Courier, August, 22 2022

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