Heavy Gunfire Reportedly Heard Inside Hotel In Mali Following News That Up To 80 Hostages Have Been Freed

Breaking news from Mali. More than 150 people were taken hostage at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Bamako, the capital of Mali today. Reports have stated that three people have been killed. Sky News has reported that state television from Mali stated that “about 80 hostages” have been freed, yet this number has not yet been confirmed. According to a security source, some hostages escaped by themselves, while it has been reported that others were freed after successfully reciting verses from the Koran. Troops from special forces are inside the hotel and are apparently moving “floor by floor” rescuing people.

Ongoing incident in Central Bamako, Mali. Any Irish there should follow instructions of local authorities. Any concerns call DFAT 01-4082527

— DFATravel (@dfatravel) November 20, 2015

About 10 people armed with guns stormed the hotel at approximately 7am local time this morning. Sky News is reporting that heavy gunfire has been heard inside the building in the last half hour. This is a breaking news story. More updates to follow. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y60wDzZt8yg&feature=youtu.be Video via YouTube/Sky News