MFA says Singaporean among hostages in Mumbai
By 938 LIVE | Posted: 27 November 2008 1053 hrs

	Photos  of
	Related News • SIA says flights to Mumbai operating normally • US, Britain, EU condemn Mumbai attacks Special Report • Mumbai Attacks

SINGAPORE: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) has said it is working closely with the Indian authorities to secure the safe release of a Singaporean held hostage at the Oberoi Hotel in Mumbai.

It is believed the Singaporean is one of 20 foreigners taken hostage and is unharmed.

In a news conference, a spokesman said the ministry is flying the family members to Mumbai and rendering to them all necessary assistance.

"We will definitely look at all the scenarios and make an educated decision on whether there is a need for us to send a crisis negotiating team to Mumbai," said the director of consular directorate at MFA, Jai Sohan Singh.

"We have actually made the offer of assistance to the Indian government, if necessary. We have not received any request at this point in time."

An MFA spokesman said as of 3.15pm Thursday, there is no information pertaining to any Singaporean being injured in Mumbai.

According to reports, at least two foreign nationals from Japan and Australia have been confirmed killed, and 11 others wounded in coordinated militant attacks in Mumbai.

MFA said Singapore strongly condemns the attacks and conveyed its deepest condolences to the victims, their families, the government of India and its people.

It said the Mumbai attacks underscored the common terrorist threat that we continue to face today, and Singapore stands firmly behind the Indian government in its fight against terrorism.

The ministry and the Singapore Consulate-General in Mumbai are closely monitoring the situation in the city.

Should Singaporeans require assistance, they can contact the Singapore Consulate-General in Mumbai or the MFA Duty Officer at 6379-8800 or 6379-8855.

When in Mumbai, MFA has advised Singaporeans to take the necessary precautions for their personal safety.

During this period, Singaporeans are advised to monitor local news reports and be prepared to face inconveniences in their travel.

If Singaporeans do not have a pressing need to travel to Mumbai, they are advised to postpone their travel to a later date.

Should they decide to travel, they are advised to register with the ministry at www.mfa.gov.sg.

This will enable the Ministry and the Consulate-General in Mumbai to contact Singaporeans and render them the necessary consular assistance in case of emergencies.

All Singaporeans travelling abroad are also encouraged to purchase comprehensive medical and travel insurance.

- 938 LIVE/CNA/yt/ls