Mumbai is under attack as a little known Islamist group the Deccan Mujahideen has taken responsibility for several terrorist attacks hitting the city late Wednesday night and early Thursday morning.  At least 78 people have been killed and 250 injured, including chief of police anti terrorist squad, Hemant Karkare, in the attacks in several different targets.  Mumbai’s popular 5 star hotels The Taj and The Oberoi have been targeted with 5 bombs going off in the Taj leaving a portion of the historic building in flames.

At the time of press there were 15 hostages in the both Taj and Oberoi, with the terrorists specifically targeting hotel guests with US or UK passports.  Gunfire seized several different locations across Mumbai.  Screams could be heard from the Taj as smoke billowed from the building.  Fortunately many guests who were stuck in the hotel have been evacuated.

Heavily armed gunman opened fire on Chattrapati Shivaji railway terminal a crowded train station in Southern Mumbai as well as Leopold’s restaurant.  The attacks seem to be centered on popular locations with many foreign visitorsin a total of 9 locations.  Other targets include Cama hospital, and GT hospital.  The gunmen are reportedly targeting American and British citizens, however it’s not confirmed whether or not the actual hostages are British or American citizens.

Indian government officials are saying 4 of the terrorists responsible have been killed, while 9 have been arrested. 

The attack marks one of the most coordinated and deadly terrorist attack in years on the largest democracy in the world.  Mumbai is India’s largest, most wealthy city in the country, as well as the financial and film capital. 
Our prayers and thoughts go out to the families of the loved ones hurt or killed in the attacks, as this horrific story continues to unfold. 

The Taj Hotel in flames early Thursday morning in Mumbai.