Here are S'pore leaders' reactions to the London terror attack

Our condolences, London.

Henedick Chng | March 23, 2017, 04:43 PM

In case you haven't heard, London suffered a terror attack yesterday (Mar. 22) in its famous Westminster area, where Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament are located.

A man driving a car ran over pedestrians on Westminster Bridge, before crashing it into the railings surrounding the Houses of Parliament.

The attacker then got out of his car, ran through the gates to the Houses of Parliament, and stabbed a 48-year-old policeman to death. Another policeman shot the attacker, killing him.

In total, four people were killed, including the attacker, and 40 were injured as a result of the terror attack. It is the most major terror attack that London has suffered since the infamous London bombings on July 7, 2005.

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MFA's statement

Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) has put out a statement condemning the terror attack, which fortunately does not seem to have affected any Singaporeans in London:

"Singapore strongly condemns the vicious terrorist attack in Westminster, London on 22 March 2017 that led to the death and injury of innocent persons, including a police officer who was killed in the line of duty. We express our deepest condolences to the bereaved families, and wish the injured a speedy recovery. The people of Singapore stand in solidarity with the people of the United Kingdom at this difficult time.

MFA and the Singapore High Commission in London have reached out to Singaporeans who are e-registered in London. Thus far, there have been no reports of Singaporeans directly affected by or injured in the incident. The Singapore High Commission will continue to work with the London Metropolitan Police and relevant authorities to monitor the situation closely.

Singaporeans in London are advised to keep in touch with their family and friends so that they know you are safe. Those who require urgent consular assistance in London should contact the Singapore High Commission or MFA Duty Office at:

Singapore High Commission in London

Tel: 44 (0)207 235 8315

Duty Hand-Phone: 44 (0)771 034 8335

Email: [email protected]

MFA Duty Office (24-hours)

Tel: +65 63798800/8855

Email: [email protected]"

Here are some reactions to the incident by Singapore's leaders:

Minister for Foreign Affairs Vivian Balakrishnan

"Saddened and shocked by the attack in Westminster, London. It is a tragedy and a reminder of the clear and present danger. Singapore strongly condemns this horrific act of terror. Our hearts go out to the victims. We also wish the injured a speedy recovery.

Singapore stands in solidarity with the British people and the British government. We must never let such acts disrupt our way of life or divide our people. It is critical to ensure that unity of societies is maintained as the long-term objective of terror groups is to divide us. My thoughts and prayers are with the British people."

Minister for Home Affairs K Shanmugam

"It was a cruel and calculated attack, clearly aimed at striking at the heart of British democracy and the British way of life.

A sombre reminder of the clear and present terror threat around the world, and the need to stay vigilant and prepared."

Minister for Defence Ng Eng Hen

"Our deep condolences go out to innocent civilians and their families affected by the attack near UK Parliament.

This area is in the heart of London, a popular spot for countless visitors, including women and children. For an assailant to use a vehicle to mount the kerbside and mow down people as if they were pins is yet another tragic violent chapter in our troubled world.

For Singaporeans, we must come together – with vigilance, hope and effort, to protect ourselves and each other."

Stay strong, London!

Top image from here.

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