The Latest: Dozens believed trapped during Somalia attack

MOGADISHU, Somalia – The Latest on attack in Somalia's capital (all times local):

1:30 p.m.

Dozens of people in Somalia's capital are believed to be trapped inside a government building amid an Islamic extremist attack.

Gunmen stormed Somalia's ministries of labor and works after a suicide bombing at the gates of the building in Mogadishu, which is near the headquarters of the country's intelligence agency. There has been no word on casualties. Saturday is a working day in Somalia.

Police say five gunmen are involved in the attack and that security forces are fighting to neutralize them. The al-Qaida-linked al-Shabab extremist group has claimed responsibility, saying it has fighters inside the building.

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11:50 a.m.

An explosion has been heard in the Somali capital, scene of frequent attacks by Islamic extremist fighters.

Witnesses said Saturday the blast was heard near the headquarters of the Somali intelligence agency in Mogadishu.

Somali police didn't immediately provide more information.

The Somali Islamic extremist group al-Shabab frequently carries out suicide bomb attacks targeting public places and government offices.