ASIA: Mumbai landmarks targeted in attacks
27 Nov 2008 2:51 PM
NEW DELHI, Nov 27 AFP - Gunmen chose some of Mumbai's best-known landmarks and tourist destinations as the focus of their coordinated attacks against multiple targets in the city on Wednesday.
Taj Mahal Hotel:
A handful of gunmen armed with assault rifles and grenades stormed into the historic hotel near the Gateway of India monument late on Wednesday evening.
They took more than a dozen hostages with a specific focus on British and American guests.
Military commandos stormed the hotel in the early hours of Thursday, reportedly killing two gunmen and freeing some guests.
As of 8am (1400 AEDT), the hotel was still under a state of siege, with at least two gunmen and a number of hostages still believed to be in the building.
Shots could be heard at regular intervals and a fire that started on the upper floors during the night was still burning.
Oberoi Trident Hotel:
Attacked by a separate group of gunmen at the same time as the assault on the Taj Mahal.
Commandos entered the hotel on several occasions during the night, resulting in exchanges of gunfire.
As of 8am (1400 AEDT), at least half a dozen foreign hostages were believed to still be held in the hotel by an unknown number of gunmen.
Nariman House:
A building comprising largely offices, including a Jewish Centre. Several reports quoted witnesses as saying at least one Jewish family was being held hostage.
The building was surrounded by Rapid Action Force personnel and snipers.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Railway Station, previously known as Victoria Terminus:
Earlier, several men armed with AK-47 rifles had stormed into the passenger hall of the station and opened fire and thrown grenades, killing at least 10 people.
Cafe Leopold:
One of Mumbai's best-known restaurants, frequented by tourists, particularly after it featured prominently in the 2003 cult novel, Shantaram, by Australian Gregory David Roberts.
Cama Hospital:
A charitable hospital for women and children. Reports of firing late Wednesday evening.
