Somalia's Al-Shabaab fighters stormed a hotel in Mogadishu 's government-controlled area, killing many people including lawmakers and officials, Radio Garowe reports.
The fighters, reportedly numbering around 10 and disguised as government soldiers, entered Muna Hotel in Hamar Weyne district, adjacent to the presidential palace where government officials and lawmakers frequent.
"Heavily armed Al-Shabaab fighters stormed the hotel early morning, and took hostage officials who were inside. Then they later killed all of them," said an eyewitness.
Independent sources told Garowe Online that the death toll hit 28 people, including lawmakers and hotel visitors.
Later on, government troops stormed the building to quell the situation, which had since taken many lives.
A statement from Somalia's ministry of information said the six of the MPs who were staying at the hotel were among the dead in the attack. In addition, 5 government security forces died in the operation. They lastly blew themselves up.
"They have no motive other than to terrorize the Somali people. This is a deplorable act in this holy month of Ramadan. It shows their brutality and lack of respect for humanity, " added the statement.
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The fighters have earlier attacked another hotel called Wehliye but no information is forthcoming.
The attacks on the hotels come as fighting rages on in the restive capital.
More than 40 people have been killed in two day clashes between Al-Shabaab fighters and government forces in northern Mogadishu.
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it's unfortunate that somalia insurgent are killing innocent citizins of thier country. what is the gain and what is the ultimate aim? this type of indiscriminate killing without consiretion for human lives is uncall for. al- shabab fighter, this not religion.(islam)