Several people are reported to have been killed after gunmen stormed a hotel complex in the Kenyan capital Nairobi.
The incident unfolded at the complex which houses a large hotel, along with several banks and offices.
Footage from the scene showed a number of cars on fire, and people being rushed and carried away from the scene.
Armed security forces were also seen making their way into the complex.
Somali militant group al-Shabab has claimed responsibility for the attack.
Government officials confirmed on Tuesday evening that all buildings have now been secured.
Press Statement by @InteriorKE CS Dr Fred Matiang’i. pic.twitter.com/KD1AA3rW0s
— National Police Service-Kenya (@NPSOfficial_KE) January 15, 2019
The exact number of victims was not immediately clear, although several Kenyan media outlets reported that at least five people had died.
At least 10 others are believed to have been injured.
Fire and smoke rise from the scene of an explosion in Nairobi, Kenya. Picture by: Khalil Senosi/AP/Press Association Images
Police Inspector General Joseph Boinnet earlier told reporters a group of armed assailants had launched a "suspected terror attack".
In quotes reported by the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation, he said: “We are aware that armed criminals are holding up in the hotel and specialist forces are now currently flushing them out.”
Smoke rises from the blast area after an attack at an upmarket hotel and office complex in Nairobi, Kenya. Picture by: Zhang Yu/Xinhua News Agency/PA Images
The Irish embassy in Nairobi said it was "aware of an ongoing security situation".
It is advising citizens to avoid travel in the vicinity.
The Embassy has become aware of an ongoing security situation at the Dusit D2 Hotel, 14 Riverside Drive, Nairobi, Kenya - please avoid travel in the vicinity, The Embassy will update as information becomes available - stay safe.
— Embassy of Ireland (@IrlEmbKenya) January 15, 2019
