Update: Two explosions occur at security checkpoint in Mogadishu

 Two huge explosions near the airport, have rocked the Somali capital Mogadishu, witnesses said.

Mohamed Ahmed Farah said suicide bomber detonated a car laden with explosive at a security checkpoint near Mogadishu’s airport following by another car which passed scene and exploded few metres away from Peace Hotel which IGAD summit last year.

“The first car exploded as security forces were searching cars at the checkpoint and the other went off a few hundred meters from the main gate of Peace Hotel,” said Farah.

After the explosions, gunfire could be heard at the checkpoint, according to Farah.

“The powerful blasts blew roofs off nearby buildings. We heard gunfire though we do not know who firing,” he said.

It is too early to know the number of casualties.

Peace Hotel which closed to UN offices is often frequented by foreigners and officials.