(VOVworld) – Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb claimed responsibility for an attack Sunday on three hotels at Grand Bassam resort, east of the capital of Abidjian, which killed at least 16 people.

Soldiers stand guard on the beach in Grand-Bassam, Ivory Coast, on Sunday. (Photo: Luc Gnago/Reuters)

Ivory Coast’s President Alassane Ouattara said 14 victims were civilians and 2 special force soldiers. Six assailants were killed. Mr. Ouattara urged security forces to continue raiding terrorists.