Africa News reports that gunmen stormed the Afrik Hotel, in Mogadishu, Somalia, known to be frequented by officials, members of the security forces and humanitarian workers. 5 people died in Sunday afternoon’s attack. Amongst them was former Defense Minister and retired Army General Mohamed Nur Galal. Galal was known as a war hero in Somalia.

Somali security forces ended an eight-hour-long siege on the hotel early Monday morning following the attack. At least ten people were killed in the fighting around the hotel, which was located near the heavily fortified Mogadishu airport.

Aside from the fighter who had detonated the explosives, 3 other fighters were also killed when security forces arrived on the scene. Four soldiers from a special unit were also killed during the clashes inside the hotel.

There are fears that the attack will further fuel political instability in Somalia, as presidential elections were due to take place on February 8. Africa News reports that two regions won’t take part in the vote, due to political disagreements.

Umm Muhammed Umar