
The death toll in Manchester Arena terror attack in UK rose to 22. Greater Manchester Police said 59 people were also injured in the suicide attack which took place around 3 am Indian time today.
The attacker also died while detonating the device. Witnesses said they heard two loud bangs, in the foyer area of Manchester Arena, after a pop concert by Ariana Grande. Manchester Victoria station, has been closed and all trains cancelled.
British Home Secretary Amber Rudd condemned the attack calling it barbaric, deliberately targeting some of the most vulnerable in our society. Relatives are using social media to hunt for missing loved ones, including children, caught up in the incident.
Earlier, British Prime Minister Theresa May said work is on to establish the full details. All our thoughts are with the victims and the families of those who have been affected, she added. Downing Street said that the Prime Minister is to chair an emergency Cabinet Office briefing room meeting today following the blast.
Meanwhile, US said it is closely monitoring the situation at the Manchester Arena in the UK. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said that it is working with foreign counterparts to obtain additional information on the blasts.
The DHS said it stands ready to assist the UK in all ways necessary. The DHS also urged US citizens in the area to pay heed to the directions from the local authorities and maintain security awareness. Meanwhile, New York authorities have stepped up security at sensitive sites.