BAMAKO: Islamic extremists armed with guns and throwing grenades stormed the Radisson Blu hotel in Mali’s capital this morning, killing at least three people and initially taking numerous hostages, authorities said.
The Brussels-based Rezidor Hotel group that operates the hotel said the assailants had “locked in” 140 guests and 30 employees.
Malian troops reacted quickly. As people ran for their lives near the hotel along a dirt road, the soldiers in full combat gear pointed the way to safety. Within hours, local TV images showed heavily armed troops in what appeared to be a lobby area.
In New Delhi, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson said 20 Indians are among the 170 guests and staff inside the hotel under the siege of gunmen.
“According to the current information, there are 20 Indians staying in the hotel. Our Ambassador is continuously in touch with them and monitoring the situation,” the spokesperson said. (AGENCIES)
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