"We received the news with deep sorrow that today (16 August) many people lost their lives and many others were injured as a result of a suicide attack with a bomb-laden vehicle following a shootout to a hotel in Mogadishu, Somalia’s capital," the Ministry said.

"We strongly condemn this heinous terrorist attack. We extend our condolences to the brotherly people and Government of Somalia, wish Allah’s mercy upon those who lost their lives and a speedy recovery to the injured," it added.

On Sunday, at least 17 people were killed and more than 30 injured in a gun and bomb attack by the al-Shabaab armed group on the Elite Hotel in the Lido beach area of Mogadishu.

In a written statement, the al-Shabaab has claimed responsibility for deadly attacks.

Harakat al-Shabaab al-Mujahideen (Movement of Striving Youth), more commonly known as al-Shabaab, is an Islamic group based in East Africa.

In 2012, it pledged allegiance to the organization Al-Qaeda.

Al-Shabaab's troop strength was estimated at 7,000 to 9,000 militants in 2014.

As of 2015, the group has retreated from the major cities; however, al-Shabaab still controls large parts of the rural areas. (ILKHA)