Fighters from Somali armed group Al Shabaab have taken over Sahafi hotel in the capital, Mogadishu.
Eye witness has said two explosions were heard before fighters went inside the hotel that is popular with members of parliament and international agencies staff.
Somali MP Abdikadir Hashi has confirmed via his twitter account that all of his fellow MPs inside the hotel are safe and sound during the drafting of this story.
Abdulkadir Hashi @MinisterHashi
I spoke with some of the MPs at the Hotel and all those I could reach are safe. #SahafiHotelAttack.
Other sources say 12 people including security guards have lost their lives while scores others have been wounded.
Al Shabaab has already claimed the responsibility of the attack saying its fighters are inside the hotel battling the Somali security forces.
Over 40 people were killed on late July when Al Shabaab suicide bomber exploded vehicle laden with explosive into popular hotel near Mogadishu International Airport.
© Radio Dalsan
