al-Shabaab (al-Qa'ida affiliate) attack on shopping mall in Kenya (September 21, 2013)

NOW: Very heavy gunfire at kenya shopping mall. Perhaps final assault on gunmen. Must keep hostages in mind.

Tweet from AP reporter:

Quote:

NOW: Very heavy gunfire at kenya shopping mall. Perhaps final assault on gunmen. Must keep hostages in mind.

http://twitter.com/jstraziuso/status/381550898390257664

After big burst of gunfire an hour ago, all quiet. No updates from scene of Kenya mall. It doesn't appear to be over.

Disaster OpCentre KE
@NDOCKenya
The Kenya National Disaster Operation Centre manages and coordinates disaster response at a national level.

Hostage numbers still unknown, but they are in several locations. No communication as yet. Upper levels have been secured.

The gunmen have been contained in one location, but there are hostages elsewhere in the vicinity who cannot access the exit.

Hostages in multiple locations that are not yet secured. Gunmen in one location.

Gunmen contained. Hostages are in several unsecured locations. KDF and special forces securing the building.

As at 0600hrs, KDF & Special Forces have control of #Westgate 1st and 2nd floors. Parts of the ground floor and basement remain unsecured.