Reports from witnesses and state media in Somalia indicate that an extremist group has launched an attack on a beachside hotel in the capital city, Mogadishu.

Security forces are currently engaged in responding to the situation while some individuals remain trapped inside the premises.

According to the Somali National News Agency, “many civilians” have been rescued from the Pearl Beach hotel as the fighting continues into Friday night, the Associated Press has reported.

At present, there is no immediate information regarding any casualties.

Responsibility for the attack has been claimed by al-Shabab, the East Africa affiliate of al-Qaida.

The Somalia-based extremist organization is notorious for its targeting of hotels and other prominent locations in Mogadishu, often initiating the attacks with suicide bombings.

Situated in close proximity to the Turkish Embassy, the Pearl Beach hotel is frequented by government officials and holds significance within the region.

Written by staff