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The death toll from an attack by gunmen at Garissa University College in northeastern Kenya on Thursday morning has risen to 70 while 79 others were injured.

The Interior Ministry said at least 79 people were injured by the attackers and had been rushed to a hospital with nine in critical condition.

Two officers and a civilian were airlifted to Nairobi for treatment.

The gunmen are said to have attacked the institution around 5.30am on Thursday.

Unconfirmed reports say that students may have been taken hostage.

Nation.co.ke reporter Abdimalik Hajir said he saw the bodies of the guards near the university's main gate.

Inspector-General of Police Joseph Boinnet said there was a shootout between the attackers and police officers who were guarding the students’ hostels.

"The attackers shot indiscriminately while inside the university compound.

“However, the attackers retreated and gained entry into the hostels. … (A) joint