2nd LD: Twin explosions strike Mogadishu beach hotel

Armed gunmen Thursday evening detonated explosive and broke into a restaurant in a popular beach in Mogadishu, police told Xinhua.

Two explosions went off within a space of 30 minutes, with sources saying the attackers may have held people hostage in the hotel.

"I am hearing heavy gunfire which seems to be exchanged by Al-Shabaab fighters and security forces," said Muktar Omar, a resident.

According to some witnesses, three people are dead while three others wounded in the attack. But the police have yet to confirm the casualties.

"I hear the sound of gunfire and explosion and it is too early to comment the extent of the casualties," Omar said, noting the operation is going on in the dark.

"I was with my friend walking towards Lido beach when we heard huge explosions from that direction and we ran back for fear of our lives," Liban Nor, a resident, told Xinhua.

A police officer at the scene said that Special Forces have arrived at the scene and trying to contain situation.

Beach view hotel which is suspected to be the main target is popular with people who visit the beach and it normally hosts live music bands at night. Endit