PARIS [Peter Paul Media] — Attackers have killed dozens of people on the streets of the French capital and President François Hollande has closed the borders after the “unprecedented terrorist attacks” which come just months after 12 people were killed at the headquarters of a satirical newspaper.
Witnesses said there were at least six attackers who were heavily armed with automatic weapons but police have yet to confirm any arrests so they are still at large.
President Hollande traveled to the scene with his Interior Minister shortly after explosions could be heard from inside Stade de France during an international friendly between France and Germany. The president, who was reportedly inside the stadium when the attacks occurred, has declared a national emergency and has closed all borders. He later met with his cabinet to discuss the situation.
“Facing terror, there is a nation that knows how to defend, able to mobilize its forces and, once again, will defeat the terrorists,” he said via Twitter.
Paris police issued a statement advising against unnecessary travel as events unfold. “The police recommends that those who are at home, with relatives or in their workplace to avoid going out.” Some Metro stations in the city are closed. For a complete list, click here.
The Government of Canada has released the following email sos@international.gc.ca for Canadians in France who need emergency assistance. There is also a telephone number 1-613-996-8885 which you can call collect. It is unclear whether any Canadians were injured or killed during the attacks, which are still unfolding at press time.
India’s President offered his condolences in a statement on the social media network: “News from Paris is anguishing & dreadful. Prayers with families of the deceased. We are united with people of France in this tragic hour.”
Britain’s Prime Minister David Cameron said the UK would do whatever they could to help: “I am shocked by events in Paris tonight. Our thoughts and prayers are with the French people. We will do whatever we can to help.”
Brazil’s President Dilma Rousseff expressed her solidarity in a statement: “Appalled by the terrorist barbarity, I express my rejection of violence and express my solidarity with the people and the French government,” she said.
Peter Paul Media 