26 people including 6 terrorists are found dead  in Holey Artisan Restaurant at Gulshan, while 13 hostages have been rescued alive during the Army commando operation that just ended a while ago. The death total will be increased.

Law enforcers have reportedly rescued 13 people, while the hostage site still remains cordoned off by security personnel.

6 Japanese citizen are still missing.

An armed forces unit had stormed the Gulshan restaurant where supposed Islamist militants were holding about 20 people hostage.

Witnesses on Road 79 in Gulshan leading to Holey Artisan Bakery and O Kitchen report hearing severe exchange of gunfire soon after the commando operation began.

Reporters from the scene have also said that several foreigners had been loaded on to ambulances and taken to hospitals. There were no indications about the condition of those people.

A number of officials have hinted that the armed forces killed five of the seven or eight terrorists who had taken over control of the posh lakeside restaurant popular with expats.

Chief of Army Staff general Abu Belal Muhammad Shafiul Huq reached the spot around 8.10am and Chief of Naval Staff Mohammad Nizamuddin Ahmed at 8.30am.

A foreigner was rescued from the restaurant around 8.20am, said a witness.

Besides, Basic Engineering Company Director Hasanat, his wife and daughter were also rescued, confirmed Hasnat’s uncle Anwarul Karim.

Another sources said Tax commissioner Borhaunddin’s daughter was also rescued.

Jasim Uddin, deputy commissioner (sensory division) said operation is still continuing, adding so far 15 people, including some Japanese and Indians, have been rescued.