Terror Attacks in India Target Westerners

In Mumbai, India, it is being reported that over 40 westerners are being held hostage in two luxury hotels. In a coordinated series of terrorists attacks in the city the death toll now stands at over 80, with more than 250 injured.

Sky news is reporting one eyewitness account which claims that some of the gunmen were lining people up and asking if they were British or American before executing them. Other reports indicate indiscriminate gunfire and grenades. The situation is ongoing, with terrorists holing up with hostages or continuing to open fire. Video of eyewitness below the fold.

The attacks hit approximately seven targets. A prime suspect may be Lashkar-e-Taiba, an Islamist terrorist group based in Pakistan. The Indian army is reportedly storming a hotel any moment in a counter-attack designed to rescue the hostages. I'll post any updates as they come in.

Update: Fox News is reporting that some of the terrorists were checking passports to locate British and American passport holders in order to execute them or take them hostage.

Update: Deccan Mujahideen claiming responsibility. Reports coming out that nine terrorists are now in custody.

Update: Reports are 100 people have been rescued from the Taj hotel. Unclear if they were rescued from a hostage situation or from the major fire now burning in the hotel.

Update: Lots of info here.

All initial reporting and government statements indicate this is likely an Islamist attack. Early reports also suggested that Hindu extremist groups may have been involved, but that seems to have since been contradicted.

India is a democratic, capitalist, pro-western nation. Mumbai is the nation's financial capital.