In Islamabad, Pakistan, hundreds of militant student are inside Lal Masjid (Red Mosque), surrounded by 12,000 Pakistani troops, defying a government order to surrender. The mosque attempted to set up a Taliban-style justice system.
Security forces began their assault on Lal Masjid this week, despite fears that action would inflame people across the country, especially in the pro-Taliban tribal areas on the border with Afghanistan.
At least 24 people have died, including militants, security officers and bystanders. Tanks fired shells at the mosque, destroying its front wall. Circling helicopters received heavy fire from within the mosque. The mosque’s chief was arrested and more than 1,000 of his followers surrendered. Security agents caught him trying to leave the mosque wearing a burqa (head-to-toe women’s gown).
About eight explosions were followed by some gunfire, which was followed by an announcement from security force loudspeakers outside the mosque, calling on the students to surrender, a witness said.
The events followed clashes at the mosque between security forces and the militants, who have been in conflict with the government for months. At least nine people have been killed.
An estimated 1,000 students are still in the building, about half of them female students.
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http://www.atimes.com/atimes/South_Asia/IG06Df03.html
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/afp_asiapacific/view/286205/1/.html
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/afp_asiapacific/view/286163/1/.html
