DA extends its condolences following Paris attacks
The DA joined scores of others the world over on Saturday extending deepest sympathy and condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of those killed in several terrorist attacks in Paris, France, on Friday night.
At least 153 people have reportedly been killed in the attacks, in what is the worst violence in France since the end of the Second World War.
“The DA has extended its condolences to France’s Ambassador to South Africa Elisabeth Barbier,” DA spokesman Stevens Mokgalapa said.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with all of those who have lost loved ones to this barbaric terrorism.
“We furthermore condemn in the strongest terms possible this indiscriminate and cowardly violence, and we hope that there will be justice for all those who lost their lives.
“The international community must work together going forward to ensure that terrorism – which threatens peace and takes the lives of innocent people – is stamped out wherever in the world it occurs,” Mokgalapa said.
Earlier, President Jacob Zuma sent a message of condolences to French President Francois Hollande.
South Africa condemned “this terrorist attack in the strongest terms possible”. “We absolutely condemn it in the strongest terms possible,” the international relations and co-operation department reportedly said. Terrorism had to be fought at all costs.
Various media reports said there had been international condemnation of the wave of attacks in Paris, which started when gunmen stormed the Bataclan Theatre during a concert, shooting at people present. Reports said 112 people were dead before police and military stormed the building.
At least six other attacks by gunmen and suicide bombers were targeted at restaurants, clubs, and a soccer match at the Stade De France, killing at least 40 people.
Hollande has reportedly closed France’s borders and declared a state of emergency.
“I have called the cabinet which is going to meet soon. This state of emergency will be decreed which means certain places will be closed. The second decision I’ve made is closing borders, we have to assure ourselves that no one can enter. This is a terrible hardship,” he reportedly said.
No one has yet claimed responsibility for the attacks, but the Islamic State is a prime suspect according to security analysts.
ANA
Photo: AFP