A string of coordinated attacks in and around the French capital of Paris has left over 157people dead and some 210 others injured, as a state of emergency is declared in the European country.
Yet unknown assailants struck at least six different venues, ranging from the national sports stadium to a pizzeria.
According to French media on Friday night, nearly 120 people, who had been held hostage by gunmen at the Bataclan concert hall in central Paris, were killed. Witnesses say the terrorists were shooting for 10 to 15 minutes. Officials said eights of the attackers were killed, including three of them who blew themselves up. About 40 other people were reportedly killed in other attacks across Paris.
The overall toll is expected to rise.
A total of eight assailants were also killed in the attacks, most of them by detonating their explosive belts. No group has claimed responsibility for the horrific attacks, yet.
Emergency declared, borders closed
French President Francois Hollande has, meanwhile, declared a state of emergency in a bid to contain the security situation in the country.
“As I speak, terrorist attacks of unprecedented proportions are underway in the Paris area. There are dozens killed, there are many injured. It is a horror.”
He also said France’s borders have been ordered shut following the attacks.
“We must ensure that no one comes in to commit any act whatsoever, and at the same time make sure that those who have committed these crimes should be arrested if they try to leave the country,” the French president said in a brief televised statement.
Meanwhile, condemnations and expressions of sympathy are pouring in for the French government and people.
A number of countries, including China, have also said they are ready to work with France to combat terrorism.
Courtesy:presstv.com