Three almost-simultaneous blasts in India’s commercial capital, Mumbai, has killed at least 21 people and injured more than 140.
The blasts took place within 20 minutes of each other during Mumbai’s peak hour in busy areas of Zaveri Bazaar, Opera House and Dadar.
The first blast, in Zaveri Bazar, at 6.56pm was initially dismissed as an accident. However, the crowded jewelry market crowded market was not the only site of blast. Within minutes, Opera House in South Delhi witnessed another blast which killed 4 people died and injured many. The third blast was near Kabutarkhana in Mumbai’s heart of Dadar.
The blast killed six people According to government statements, Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) were used in these blasts. (Watch: YouTube videos on Mumbai blasts)
The Mumbai Police have secured CCTV footage at key locations, which they hope will be very useful in solving the crime. The police are suspecting Indian Mujahiddin to be responsible for the blasts. International leaders, including from Pakistan and the US, have condemned the attacks.
In the meantime, the entire city of Mumbai has been put on high alert. The police have appealed to people to stay at home, unless absolutely essential. Similarly, other major cities including Delhi have been put on high alert.
The Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan who described the blasts as “an attack on the heart of India.”
The elite NSG (National Security Group) has been activated and put on stand-by in Mumbai. “There is no information about any other threat,” says the country’s home minister P Chidambaram.
“I will appeal to the people of Mumbai to remain calm and maintain peace,” says the minister.
The Indian community in New Zealand has expressed shock and sympathy towards the latest act of terrorism.
“Both, inexplicable as well as despicable act of cowardice,” says Singh.
“Our heartfelt condolence to bereaved families. May God give them strength to withstand their very difficult and traumatic predicament. We also wish quick recovery for the injured.”
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