Mumbai clashes continue as British victim named
Mumbai clashes continue as death-toll rises
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Thursday, 27, Nov 2008 06:57
The Indian army is continuing to battle with gunmen thought to be holding dozens of hostages in Mumbai after yesterday's unprecedented terrorist attacks.
Up to 125 people - including one Briton - are feared to have died in the attacks, which saw gunmen attack at least seven separate sites late on Wednesday.
On Thursday the Foreign Office confirmed there had been at least one British victim from the attacks. He has been named by the Indian city's St George's hospital as yachting millionaire Andreas Liveras.
On Wednesday Mr Liveras had given an interview to the BBC from the basement of the Taj Mahal hotel. Some time later - possibly just a matter of minutes - he died from several gunshot wounds.
Soldiers are continuing to surround the luxury hotels targeted by armed men. Thirty people - mostly westerners - are believed to have been taken hostage and hundreds of hotel guests remain trapped in their rooms.
A previously unknown Islamic extremist group calling itself Deccan Mujahideen has claimed responsibility for the attacks, which have injured up to 300 people.
Indian prime minister Manmohan Singh has appeared on national television to urge calm in Mumbai and for residents to remain indoors.
He said his government would aim "ensure the safety and security of our citizens".
"In this hour of tragedy, I appeal to the people to maintain peace and harmony," he added.
On Thursday there followed reports of exchanges of fire between security forces and the gunmen, and a number of large explosions at the Taj Mahal Palace and the Oberoi Trident hotels.
Commenting, UK foreign secretary David Miliband described the attacks as "callous, inhuman and indiscriminate".
"This is an attack on all of us," he said, adding that a taskforce of Foreign Office and Metropolitan police officials were now in the city, India's largest and its financial hub.
Prime minister Gordon Brown condemned the attacks, saying: "These outrageous attacks in Mumbai will be met with a vigorous response.
"I have sent a message to Prime Minister Singh that the UK stands solidly with his government as they respond, and to offer all necessary help. Urgent action is underway to offer every possible protection to British citizens in the region."
US president George Bush's press secretary, Dana Perino, said America condemned the attacks and would "continue to stand with the people of India in this time of tragedy".
The Foreign Office has issued an emergency number for those concerned about relatives in Mumbai: 0207 008 0000.