Violent Attack Rocks Mogadishu Beach Hotel

An explosion and gunfire erupted at a beach hotel in Mogadishu, Somalia, leading to an immediate response from security forces. The al-Shabab group claimed responsibility. Witnesses described scenes of chaos, with some people killed and others injured. The Lido Beach area has been a previous target of similar attacks.

An explosion and gunfire rocked a hotel by the beach in Somalia's capital city of Mogadishu, and security forces rushed to the scene, authorities and witnesses said Friday night.

The state-owned Somali National News Agency reported that security forces had "neutralized the attackers," though there was no immediate word on deaths or injuries.

Al-Qaida's East Africa affiliate, al-Shabab, claimed responsibility for the attack through its radio broadcast.

Lido Beach, a popular area in Mogadishu, is typically bustling on Friday nights as Somalis enjoy their weekend.

A witness, Mohamud Moalim, recounted seeing an attacker wearing an explosive vest moments before the man "blew himself up next to the beach-view hotel.'' Moalim mentioned that some of his friends were killed and others wounded.

Another witness, Abdisalam Adam, told the Associated Press that he "saw many people lying on the ground" and helped transport some injured individuals to the hospital.

The Lido Beach area has previously been targeted by militants allied with al-Shabab, with a similar attack last year resulting in nine deaths.

(With inputs from agencies.)