Developing story: Suspected 'terror attack' in Nairobi

Police have responded to gunfire and explosion reported at on 14 Riverside Drive in Nairobi

Nairobi, Kenya: Heavy gunfire and explosion have been reported at 14 Riverside Drive off Chiromo Road in Westlands, Nairobi.

Four cars have been destroyed in the incident. 

Police spokesperson Charles Owino says the area has been cordoned off.

A contingent of security officers has been deployed to man the area around DusitD2 hotel.

Ambulances, security forces and firefighters are at the scene as Recce Squad officers evacuate civilians from the boutique hotel.

 Specialised GSU commandoes the Recce Squad is evacuating civilians from the hotel and nearby buildings.

The Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI) boss George Kinoti is currently at the scene as rescue teams including Red Cross attend to the injured.

The attackers are yet to be identified. Staff at the premises say they heard explosions at around 3.30PM Tuesday evening.

KDF commandoes take positions at 14 Riverside Drive in Westlands, Nairobi.

So far one body has been recovered from one of the buildings. The injured have been rushed to nearby hospitals. Avenue Hospital Parklands have made an urgent blood appeal.

The military has also joined police at Dusit Hotel complex in search for attackers.

How it happened

3:48 PM: Suspected terrorists arrive at dusitD2 Hotel Complex on Riverside Drive, Nairobi in a saloon car before throwing an explosive at the security guards manning the gate.

3:55 PM: Three vehicles are seen burning at the scene.

3:58 PM: DCI boss George Kinoti arrives at scene.

4:05 PM: Rescue operation underway as casualties are being moved from the building.

.4: 25 PM: Ambulances and rescue teams arrive at scene.

4:25 PM: Recce squad move into the hotel complex to pursue the attackers.

4:30 PM: Kenya Airforce team arrives at the scene.

4:36 PM: Recce squad officers gain access into the building.

Police IG Joseph Boinnet has also issued a press statement stating that officers are battling attackers at Dusit Hotel. He also added that all public and other hotel premises are under close watch.

Police have also implored motorists to use alternative routes. 

We wish to confirm that there has been an attack incident along 14 Riverside Drive. The area has since been cordoned off.

Motorists are advised to use alternative routes to facilitate smooth operations of the Police.

More information to follow. — Kenya Police Service (@PoliceKE) January 15, 2019