Al-Shabab claims responsibility for Somali hotel attack

Islamic militant organisation Al-Shabab has claimed responsibility for the attack on Sahafi Hotel in Somali's capital Mogadishu, where a hostage situation is underway.

At least 11 people, including the owner of the hotel, a lawmaker and a former military general, have been killed in the attack, Reuters reported.

African Union Mission to Somalia (AMISOM), which have been assisting the Somali troops in a fight against the Al-Shabab militants in the country, are also present at the scene, fighting the militants.

"The troops were still mopping (up) floor by floor,"said an AMISOM spokesperson.

Earlier today, two car bombs went off at the main gate of the hotel, following which the attackers stormed into the building, exchanging gunfire with the security guards.