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 stormed the Posh Treats and Pizza House restaurants. Multiple deaths were reported, 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 with the Somali-based militant group.Posh Treats 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