UPDATE 1:33 p.m.:
Citing that operations are still "ongoing," the Associated Press is now reporting "27 people slain" and "2 jihadis killed."
UPDATE 11:49 a.m.:
The hostage situation has reportedly ended, according to the Associated Press. Thus far, local police have discovered at least 18 bodies. No more information has been given.
See original story below.
Attackers armed with guns and "throwing grenades" reportedly stormed a hotel in Mali’s capital early Friday morning, according to the Associated Press. At least three people have been killed among an initial total of at least 170 hostages at the Radisson Blu hotel. Though some are reporting the attackers as "Islamic extremists" based on "at least one guest" reporting to local authorities that he was "instructed to recite verses from the Quran" before being allowed to leave the hotel, the identity or affiliation of the assailants has not been confirmed.
"We should yet again stand firm and show our solidarity with a friendly country, Mali," French President Francois Hollande said after hearing of the hostage situation. Malian forces are reportedly freeing hostages as quickly as possible, with "at least 30" currently free as local authorities continue to attempt contact with the attackers.
Malian army commander Modibo Nama Traore tells AP that "10 gunmen" stormed the hotel, firing on guards. A hotel staffer confirmed to reporters "over the phone" that the attackers also used grenades during the siege. No groups have taken responsibility for the attack, which comes just one week after the tragic ISIS-perpetrated violence in Paris.
