A huge blast has been reported near the Somali presidential palace in Mogadishu.

At least 10 people were killed in the suicide bombing which caused a huge blast and destroyed two hotels nearby, according to police. Al-Shabab fighters claimed responsibility for Tuesday’s attack, Reuters reported.

Witnesses and social media users reported hearing a loud explosion in Mogadishu, followed by gunfire.

“There was a blast close to the SYL Hotel area, near the main checkpoint of the presidential palace,” said Ibrahim Mohamed, a security officer.

Images posted to social media showed huge plumes of smoke rising above the president’s palace.

CCTV’s Abdulaziz Billow from Mogadishu, gives more details.