Multiple Deaths Reported in Mogadishu Restaurant Attack, Hostage Situation Ongoing

A large explosion occurred in downtown Mogadishu during the evening hours of June 14 before several alleged al-Shabaab gunmen</a> stormed the Posh Treats and Pizza House restaurants. Multiple deaths were reported</a>, while hostages were trapped inside.

Somali security forces were engaged in sporadic gunfire with the gunmen, who were holding a number of Kenyan and Ethiopian nationals hostage. Al-Shabaab has yet to formally claim responsibility for the attack; however, numerous Somali media reports quoting government officials suggested that the gunmen were affiliated</a> with the Somali-based militant group.

Posh Treats</a> was opened in 2015 and features one of the city’s few music venues, while also housing a small hotel and spa. Credit: Twitter/imukhtaar via Storyful