Car Bomb Explodes by Mogadishu Checkpoint

By BBC

A car bomb has exploded by a checkpoint on the outskirts of the Somali capital, Mogadishu, killing several people, reports say.

There was reportedly a shootout between the security forces and three attackers, who got out of the vehicle which was laden with explosives.

Some sources say the intended target was a nearby tax office. At least two civilians have been killed. Some reports suggest the attackers also died. Police have yet to issue a statement.

It is not clear who was behind the explosion, but the militant al-Shabab group often carries out attacks in Mogadishu since it was forced out of the city in 2011.