Mumbai attacked on huge scale
Updated on 27 November 2008
India has had its 9/11 and 7/7 equivalents before. But the coordinated attacks on targets across Mumbai are unlike any before.
An astounding number of gunmen armed with automatic weapons and grenades have hit multiple targets all with different objectives: the main station, world-famous five star hotels popular with foreigners, an upmarket restaurant, a Jewish centre and police.
Over 100 people are dead and many more injured. The victims range from the totally random to reports of British and American citizens being picked out on purpose and taken hostage.
Three hostage situations are still going on, the owners of the Oberoi hotel say up to 200 people could still be inside.
The attackers appear to be young and possibly home grown, but India's Prime Minister Manmohan Singh is clearly suggesting Pakistani involvement saying the attacks had external linkages.
Several foreigners are among the injured but the British government cannot confirm numbers, or one report of a British death.
India's financial centre is shut down.
Dr Singh has pledged to take "whatever measures are necessary" to ensure the safety and security of his citizens.
Speaking on national television, he said the authorities would "go after" those responsible for the "cowardly and horrific attacks" and ensure they pay a heavy price.
Foreign Office helpline
If you are concerned about friends or relatives in Mumbai, the Foreign Office has issued a helpline. The number is 0207 008 0000.
Latest travel advice from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office
It is still a confused picture coming out of Mumbai this lunchtime, but a previously unheard of group calling itself the Deccan Mujahedeen has said it carried out the attacks.
Up to 10 locations were targeted by gunmen in a series of coordinated attacks just before midnight local time.
Two men started shooting at passengers waiting for trains at the city's main commuter train station, known as the CST.
Eyewitnesses at the five star Trident Oberoi hotel have reported hearing a large explosion before gunmen stormed the building.
Security forces say there are still hostages being held inside.
Commandos have freed some hostages from the Taj Mahal hotel, although it is still unclear whether guests remain trapped inside with militants.
