Somalia: Explosion reported near Mogadishu's Nasa Hablod Hotel Oct. 25 /update 1

Event

Emerging reports indicate that a car bomb was detonated near Mogadishu's Nasa Hablod Hotel Oct. 25. There have been no reports of casualties at this time. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack; however, the Al-Shabaab militant group is the most likely perpetrator.

Heightened security is likely near the blast site in the coming hours. The incident and response could disrupt road travel and business operations in the surrounding area.

Advice

Avoid the blast site. Heed the instructions of security officials. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation.