There are no South African casualties at this stage following a spate of attacks in the Indian city of Mumbai, which left dozens of people dead, said the Foreign Affairs Department on Thursday.
”At this stage, the Indian authorities have not advised us of any South African casualties,” said spokesperson Ronnie Mamoepa.
Wednesday’s attacks were reportedly carried out by teams of heavily armed gunmen who stormed luxury hotels, a popular tourist attraction, hospitals and a crowded train station. Some people were also taken hostage.
The South African government extended its condolences to the government and people of India, said Mamoepa.
He said the South African consulate general in Mumbai, Busi Kuzwayo, has received a number of phone calls from concerned families in South Africa, companies with employees in Mumbai and pilots and crew members from the South African Airways.
”Due to communication problems created by the attacks, [Kuzwayo] has managed at this stage to make contact with the three pilots and four crew members. Efforts are currently under way to contact the rest of the crew members,” said Mamoepa.
Additionally, two officials from the South African Reserve Bank that were reported to be in the Mumbai area were also being traced.
Mamoepa said all South African companies based in Mumbai have been requested to advise if any of their employees were in the vicinity of the hotels, hospital and restaurant that came under attack.
”The consul general is still awaiting feedback from these companies,” he said.
Meanwhile, families with relatives in Mumbai are encouraged to contact the consular section of the Foreign Affairs Department on 012 351 1000.
South Africans in Mumbai are being encouraged to contact the offices of the consulate general to report their presence and well-being, said Mamoepa. — Sapa