MOGADISHU (REUTERS) - Two bombs exploded in quick succession outside the front of the Jazira hotel near the Somali capital's international airport on Wednesday, police and local residents said.

"First we heard a big crash and the security forces immediately opened fire," said Mr Abdullahi Hussein who lives 300 metres behind the hotel. "After a few minutes another explosion took place and there was more gunfire."

There was no immediate word on casualties.