Burkina hotel attack: Al Qaeda's Islamic Maghreb claims responsibilty

Gunmen have attacked a hotel in Burkina Faso’s capital, Ouagadougou.

The incident occurred around the Splendid hotel and the Cappuccino restaurant, mostly used by foreigners, locals say.

Security forces arrived at the scene of the incident minutes later. Close to five cars were in flames at the time.

The hotel, a fairly popular one, is located near the Ouagadougou airport.

Local media report that at least one person has been taken hostage inside the building. There is not yet any indication of casualties.

Eyewitnesses say they heard exchanges of gunfire between the armed men and security forces, as well as sporadic gunfire from inside the hotel. At least one car was seen burning outside the building.

Reports suggest the nearby Cappucino cafe, was also attacked.

Attaque à l'hôtel Splendide de Ouagadougou – Video amateur: https://t.co/TfH0YKaDnP via YouTube

— Burkina 24 (burkina24) January 15, 2016

Meanwhile a press release from Burkina Faso’s military has confirmed another attack close to the border with Mali during which 2 people were killed.