14 Riverside Terror Attack: Al-Shabaab Claims Responsibility

At around 3.30 pm, a loud blast has been heard at 14 Riverside Drive in Westlands area in Nairobi near the Dusit D2 Hotel followed by heavy gunfire.

Sources indicate that six attackers arrived at the scene aboard two cars, one which they blew upon entry and another Toyota saloon car bearing registration number KCN 340E.

The attackers are said to have forced their way into 14 Riverside Drive by shooting at guards, hurled explosives into vehicles and went into Dusit D2 Hotel.

The Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI) George Kinoti is among top security personnel who arrived at the scene.

Several students and staff from the University of Nairobi Chiromo campus, which is located along Riverside drive, have evacuated.

Security officers drawn from various teams including the elite Recce Squad and Kenya Defense Forces (KDF) have since been deployed in the area.

"Police wishes to confirm that there has been an attack along 14 Riverside Drive. The area has since been cordoned off and motorists are advised to use alternative routes to facilitate smooth operations of the Police," the National Police Service says in a tweet.

Al Jazeera reports that the Somalia-based terror organization Al-Shabaab through their military operations spokesman has claimed responsibility for the attack.