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Singapore condemns Manchester attack; President Tony Tan, PM Lee send condolence letters

SINGAPORE – The Republic’s leaders have strongly condemned Monday’s (May 22) bomb attack at an Ariana Grande concert at the Manchester Arena, which killed at least 22 people and injured 59 others.

Armed police (left) at Manchester Arena after reports of an explosion at the venue during an Ariana Grande gig. Photo: Peter Byrne/PA Wire via AP

Armed police (left) at Manchester Arena after reports of an explosion at the venue during an Ariana Grande gig. Photo: Peter Byrne/PA Wire via AP

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SINGAPORE – The Republic’s leaders have strongly condemned Monday’s (May 22) bomb attack at an Ariana Grande concert at the Manchester Arena, which killed at least 22 people and injured 59 others.

Both President Tony Tan Keng Yam and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong conveyed their deepest condolences to the victims and their families in separate letters on Tuesday.

In a letter to Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II, President Tan wrote that he was “deeply saddened” to learn of the attack, adding that the Republic “strongly condemns this vicious act” and wish those injured a speedy recovery.

On Monday evening, a bomb exploded at Manchester Arena where American pop singer Ariana Grande held her concert. This was Britain’s deadliest terrorist attack since the 2005 subway bombings which claimed over 50 lives. The Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the attack.

According to British police, the attacker – believed to be a suicide bomber – had used an “improvised explosive device” and died at the scene. A 23-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the attack.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the British people during this time of grief,” said President Tan, who is currently on a state visit in Poland.

“I am certain that the United Kingdom will stand firm in the face of adversity, and overcome this difficult period with strength.”

In a separate letter to Britain’s Prime Minister Theresa May, PM Lee described the attack as a “senseless act of violence”.

“We must never allow such acts to divide our societies and bring fear to our daily lives. Our thoughts and prayers are with the British people, especially the victims and their families, during this difficult time,” said Mr Lee.

Separately, Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) said in a statement on Tuesday that there are no reports of Singaporeans directly affected or injured in the incident thus far.

It added that the High Commission is also working closely with the Manchester Police to monitor the situation.

Singaporeans in the United Kingdom are advised to stay in touch with their family and friends to inform them of their safety, said MFA.

Those who are in need of urgent consular assistance should contact the Singapore High Commission in London or the MFA Duty Office at:

Singapore High Commission in London

Tel: +44 (0)207 235 8315

Duty handphone: +44 (0) 771 034 8335

Email: singhc_lon [at] mfa.sg

MFA Duty Office (24-hours)

Tel: +65 63798800/8855

Email: mfa_duty_office [at] mfa.gov.sg

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