26/11 Mumbai Terrorist Attack: That black night of terror, read how the attack was carried out over four days

It has been 14 years since 10 Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists attacked India's financial hub Mumbai on November 26, 2008. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, Hotel Trident, Nariman House, Leopold Cafe, and Cama Hospital were among the congested areas that were targeted by terrorists across the city.

In this tragic incident, 166 people, including security personnel, lost their lives, while the National Security Guard (NSG) and the Mumbai Police gunned down nine terrorists. Ajmal Kasab, the only terrorist found alive, was found guilty and sentenced to death. Kasab was hanged on 21 November 2012, five days before the fourth anniversary of the 26/11 attacks. Following the attacks, several politicians including Maharashtra Chief Minister Vilasrao Deshmukh and the then Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil resigned.

26/11

 On the night of 26 November 2008, 10 terrorists of Pakistan's terrorist organization Lashkar-e-Taiba entered India through a boat from the sea coast of Colaba. Fully armed and dressed in such a way that no one can recognize them. The first reports from the city start coming in late at night. Although initial reports mentioned a 'gang war', it soon became clear that it was a terrorist attack.

Two terrorists enter Trident, two enter Taj, and four enter Nariman House. The other two, including Kasab, started shooting at CSMT, killing 58 people and injuring over 100. Kasab and Ismail Khan then target Cama Hospital. They attack six police officers on the way, including Ashok Kamte, Vijay Salaskar, and Hemant Karkare, former chief of the Mumbai Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS).

The two then escape in a jeep driven by the officers but are caught by the Mumbai Police. In the ensuing firefight, Khan is killed and Kasab is taken into custody. Policeman Tukaram Omble dies in the line of duty.

27/11

The Taj, Trident, and Nariman House were surrounded by army personnel and Marine commandos. Operation Black Tornado was launched involving the elite NSG, which was sent to attack the sites.

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