Somali security forces end Al-Shabaab hotel siege in capital, ‘neutralize’ attackers

By Hassan Isilow

Somali security forces said Friday they have ended a siege by the Al-Shabaab terrorist group at a popular hotel in the capital Mogadishu, the state broadcaster reported.

With several bomb explosions and gunfire, the al-Qaeda-linked terrorist group late Thursday stormed the SYL Hotel, usually frequented by government officials and lawmakers.

Three soldiers were killed and 27 people, including 9 soldiers, were wounded during the attack on the hotel, located close to the presidential palace, according to a state broadcaster report.

Security forces also “neutralized” five attackers, the broadcaster said.

Many people, including government officials, have been evacuated from the hotel building.

Al-Shabaab claimed responsibility for the attack on the hotel.