Afghan officials say Taliban insurgents attacked a popular hotel in the capital, Kabul, Thursday night triggering a fierce gunbattle with security forces.

Mohammad Zahir, head of the Criminal Investigation Department of the Kabul police, said the attack began shortly before midnight and is ongoing. He said the gunmen, armed with rocket-propelled grenades and Kalashnikov rifles, stormed the hotel that is located near a lake.

Reuters news agency quotes Afghan police as saying the militants are holding several hostages, including women and children, and that there are some casualties.

No other details were immediately available.