Australia should "expect the worst" as death toll rises(in Mumbai)

[tekisui]

The Federal Government has warned Australians should "expect the worst" as the death toll in India's financial capital rises after a series of coordinated terrorist strikes.

One Australian has been confirmed dead in the terror attacks in Mumbai, but we should expect that figure to rise, says Acting Foreign Minister Simon Crean.

Up to 26 Australians were believed to have been in the Taj Mahal and Oberoi/Trident hotels that were attacked by armed Islamic militants.

And there are grave fears that a second Australian could be among the estimated 125 people killed during the attacks.

Authorities report they've wrested back control of the Taj Mahal Hotel and that the hostages are safe, but terrorists are still in control at the Oberoi Hotel, Mr Crean says.

We must prepare for the Australian death toll to rise, he said.

"We not only have the fears, but one has to expect the worst," Mr Crean said.

"There are roughly 70 Australians that we are aware of that have been involved directly in the hotels.

"The 125 dead overall, the 300 injured, hostages taken unknown – you'd have to think that in the context of that sort of mix there would be more Australians involved, but it is not clear at this stage to what extent."

Mr Crean said it had been too dangerous to get in contact with all the 300 Australians registered as living in Mumbai, he said.

more: http://www.independentweekly.com.au/news/local/news/general/australia-should-expect-the-worst-as-death-toll-rises/1372668.aspx