Thursday, February 21, 2013

CAR BOMB BLAST SHAKES CENTRAL DAMASCUS, DAMAGES RUSSIAN EMBASSY

A handout picture released by the official Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) on February 21, 2013 shows the aftermath of a powerful car bomb explosion near the headquarters of Syria's ruling Baath party in the centre of Damascus. (AFP Photo)

Police have confirmed the Syrian capital Damascus was shaken by a massive car bomb blast, with the explosion happening on a square where pro-government rallies are usually staged.


SANA news agency reported that the car bombing occurred in a densely-populated area, at the intersection of major streets, and resulted in casualties and injuries among civilians and school students.


Police failed to identify the precise cause of the explosion. However, they indicated that the casualties included four children, according to AP. Security forces also noted that the blast happened at a security checkpoint between the Russian Embassy and the central headquarters of the ruling Baath Party of President Bashar Assad.

A Russian diplomat told RIA-Novosti the windows were broken in the building, but provided no information on whether anyone was killed or injured in the explosion.

State media reported the "terrorist explosion" caused casualties, but didn't specify numbers, according to Reuters.

Meanwhile, an RT Arabic correspondent said there were three blasts in Damascus, contrary to the majority of current reports. Activists confirm that information, though provide no further details.

SOURCE

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