Terrorists attacked hotels and other locations in bustling Mumbai, formerly Bombay, in India’s west coast state of Maharashtra Wednesday. Armed assailants took hostages after killing and injuring hundreds in the city considered India’s commercial and entertainment capital.

Gunmen opened fire in crowded hotels Wednesday evening, cutting down foreigners and citizens. The shootings were followed by a series of devastating explosions.

Brampton-Springdale MP Ruby Dhalla, who has friends in the country’s busy financial centre still under siege Thursday, said she was shocked and concerned by the brazen attack that claimed the lives of so many innocent people and injured hundreds. In speaking with friends in Mumbai, she has learned there is an overwhelming sense of grief, sadness and distress in the region. She offered her thoughts and prayers to the family and friends of those killed and injured.
Canadians are believed to be among hostages and the injured. Workers in offices surrounding the area reportedly had to spend much of the night locked in their offices and today many others are being told to stay home. A 5-km radius around Mumbai was cordoned off Thursday.
“The innocent civilians and foreigners that have been targeted in these attacks are devastating,” Dhalla said in an official news release. “I join all Canadians in strongly condemning all acts of terrorism that have taken the lives of far too many.”

Officials in India and terrorist experts have said the attacks on these high profile targets were well-planned and orchestrated. Hundreds were still believed trapped in at least one hotel Thursday.

Prime Minister Stephen Harper condemned the “cowardly” attacks and “heinous” acts of violence. Harper also extended Canada’s sympathy and condolences to families and loved ones of those killed and injured.
“Canada stands firmly with the government and people of India in your fight against terror and as you face with resolve one of the darkest times a country can ever experience,” Harper said in a released statement.

The Canadian government is working closely with authorities in India to find and assist any Canadians affected by the violence.
“Our consular staff in Ottawa and on the ground in Mumbai are working tirelessly to this end,” Harper said.

Authorities in India suspect Muslim militants may be behind the attacks on hotels in the metropolis populated by more than 10 million. An unknown Islamic militant group claimed responsibility, but its involvement had not been verified.

More than 100 are reported killed and 300 injured in coordinated assaults on 10 locations. Targets included five star hotels the Taj Mahal and the Oberoi, a popular restaurant and Jewish centre. Foreigners, including American and British citizens, were being singled out by attackers, according to some reports.