DHAKA: At least 48 people have died after suspected Islamist militants attacked hotels and a police station in a Kenyan coastal town.

Officials say, reports the BBC.

Witnesses in Mpeketoni said gun battles went on for several hours and reported seeing buildings set on fire.

The town is close to Lamu island, which is a well-known tourist resort.

Kenya has suffered a number of militant attacks since 2011 when its forces entered neighbouring Somalia to combat al-Shabab fighters.

BDST: 1545 HRS, JUNE 16, 2014