Terror attacks in Mumbai; 80 dead, over 900 injured

Mumbai (AsiaNews/Agencies) - An unknown group, the Deccan Mujahedeen, claimed responsibility of  a number of violent terror attacks in the city of Mumbai. Terrorists used heavy machine guns and grenades killing at least 80 and sending more than 900 to hospital.

The attacks were aimed to strike at the city's most high-profile targets: rail terminus; domestic airports,  hospitals  and the luxury hotels Oberoi and Taj Hotel at the Gateway.

The attacks appeared to be aimed at getting international attention as the terrorists took up to 40 British nationals and other foreigners hostage.

During the night there were reports of firing around several landmark buildings, including the Taj hotel, Oberoi and other tourist attractions. Police and the army have surrounded the buildings and are engaged in a battle.

There has been a wave of bombings in Indian cities in recent months which has left scores of people dead. Most of the attacks have been blamed on Muslim militants, although police have also arrested suspected Hindu extremists. A series of attacks in Mumbai in July 2006 killed almost 190 people and injured more than 700.