170 People Have Been Taken Hostage At A Hotel In Mali

Two gunmen have reportedly taken 170 people hostage at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Mali. According to the BBC, gun shots have been heard around the hotel in Mali’s capital, Bamako, which is known to be a popular hotel for tourists. “Apparently, it’s an attempt to take hostages. The police are there, sealing off the area,” a source has reportedly told Reuters news agency. It has been reported that a statement from the hotel owners reads: “As per our information, two persons have locked in 140 guests and 30 employees.” The US embassy in Bamako has stated on Twitter that they are aware of the “ongoing shooter operation” at the hotel and are providing updates online.

SECURITY MESSSAGE (1/4) The Embassy is aware of an ongoing active shooter operation at the Radisson Hotel.

— U.S. Embassy Bamako (@USEmbassyMali) November 20, 2015

This is a breaking news story, more updates to follow. Cover image: Radisson Blu Hotel