Security forces clear Taj's new building of terrorists

Mumbai, Nov 28 (PTI) Security forces have cleared the
new building of the Taj Hotel of terrorists and handed it over
to the Mumbai police, a top Army commander said Friday.

"The new building of Taj Hotel has been totally
flushed out, cleared and handed over to Mumbai Police,"
GOC-in-C Southern Command Lt General N Thamburaj told
reporters.

He said security forces have been able to engage one
of the terrorists holed up in the old building of the Taj
hotel.

"We are in the final stages of operations. We will be
able to wrap up things within a few hours," Thamburaj said.

The Army Commander said operations against the militants
have been slowed down as security forces did not want to
suffer further casualties.

Asked about the number of casualties, Lt General
Thamburaj said "I am not in a position to say whether
casualties are fatal or non-fatal. Leaking out of this kind of
information may affect their mental make-up".

Referring to the operation at Taj hotel, the Army officer
said there was a possibility of terrorists holding two or more
hostages with them in the luxury establishment.

"This morning while carrying out the operation, we heard
the sound of a lady and a gentleman. So it is possible that
terrorists could be holding two or more hostages with them.
It could be possible that more than one terrorist is there,"
he said.

Lt General Thamburaj said several guests had locked
themselves up inside the rooms. "It is possible that hotel
guests have locked themselves up inside their rooms for their
own security and safety."

Even though the security forces have identified
themselves, the guests seemed to have maintained a low profile
and kept their rooms shut, he said. PTI KV
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