Somalia, al-Shabab suicide attack on hotel, over 10 dead

(Adnkronos) – The death toll from a suicide attack by al-Shabab militants on the Qaahira hotel in Beledweyne, in the Hiiran region of central Somalia, has risen to over ten. The terrorist group targeted a meeting between elders and military officials during which an offensive to counter al-Shabab was being discussed. Garowe online reports that a suicide bomber blew himself up in front of the hotel entrance and then other militants entered and fired on those present. Security forces returned fire and killed three militants, the website reports.