Death toll in Spain attacks rises to 14
18 August, Barcelona
The death toll in a double attack in Spain rose to 14. The country reeled from the two vehicle rampages that saw drivers plough into pedestrians in Barcelona and Cambrils.
The emergency services said a woman injured in the Cambrils attack has died, bringing the total to 14 in both attacks. More than one hundred others were injured.
Police later shot dead five suspects. Suspects in Spain’s twin terror attacks were preparing an even bigger assault but were thwarted in their plans. Prime Minister, Mariano Rajoy described it a terrorist attack. Islamic State group has claimed the responsibility of the attack in Barcelona.
An Indian-origin television actress in the UK had a lucky escape when she hid in a restaurant freezer during the terrorist attack. Laila Rouass, 46, who was on a holiday in the city with her 10-year-old daughter Inez Khan, live tweeted from her hideout as the attack unfolded.
World leaders including India have condemned the terrorist attack and vowed to stand against the evil of terrorism.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly condemned terror attacks and wrote to his counterpart Mariano Rajoy to convey India’s readiness to work with his country to develop a strong global response to defeat terrorism.
Mr. Modi underlined that terrorism has become a global menace threatening the entire humanity and those who stand on the side of peace cannot allow these forces to endanger our cherished values of democracy and freedom.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said that the world body stands in solidarity with Spain in its fight against terrorism and violent extremism.
The United States President Donald Trump also condemned the attack and offered assistance to Spain.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has urged the world community to unite in the battle against terrorism.
German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron also denounced the attack and called for fight against the forces of terror.
British Prime Minister Theresa May said, the UK stands with Spain following the appalling twin terror attacks. The Spanish flag and the UK’s Union Jack are flying at half-mast at Downing Street in London and other government buildings in the UK.