A vehicle loaded with explosives has rammed into the entrance of Elite Hotel in Mogadishu’s Liddo Beach.
Sources at the scene said armed men have entered the hotel which is frequented by beach goers in the city. Initial reports put the number of the attackers at at least five.
The hotel was opened last year and is one of the conspicuous investment along Liddo Beach. The hotel is owned by federal MP Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur.
At least 28 people have been injured and unconfirmed number killed in a terrorist attack at a hotel in Mogadishu.
Ambulance services provider Aamin Ambulance confirmed 28 people have been injured in the attack at Elite Hotel in Liddo.
Government spokesman Ismael Omar has directed blame at the militant group Al-Shabaab.
The militants have reportedly entered the hotel amid fears the casualties could climb within the hour.