Dhaka, July 2 (RHC)-- Bangladeshi forces stormed an upscale Dhaka restaurant to end a hostage-taking by heavily armed terrorists early Saturday, killing six of the attackers and rescuing 13 captives including foreigners.  The military said 20 of the hostages had been killed during the 10-hour standoff, and officials from Japan said seven of its citizens were unaccounted for.

About 35 people were taken hostage, including about 20 foreigners, when gunmen stormed the popular Holey Artisan Bakery in Dhaka’s Gulshan area, a diplomatic zone, on Friday night during the Ramadan holy month.  Two police officers were killed at the beginning of the attack.

Bangladeshi authorities said six attackers were killed by the paramilitary troops who mounted the rescue operations.  They also recovered explosive devices and sharp weapons from the scene.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina condemned the attack, which was claimed by the Islamic State group, and she said security officials arrested one of the militants.