Dozens killed in suspected Syrian gas attack
- 6 years ago
DOUMA, SYRIA — Dozens of people were killed in suspected chemical gas attacks on the town of Douma near Damascus on Saturday.
According to the U.S.-based Syrian American Medical Society, at least 48 people have died, while the Union of Medical Care and Relief Organizations said that 70 deaths have been confirmed, the BBC reports.
The pro-opposition Ghouta Media Center said a helicopter dropped a barrel bomb containing Sarin gas.
Rescue workers said hundreds of people were showing signs and symptoms consistent with exposure to an organophosphorus compound.
One paramedic was quoted by the Guardian saying, "the attack was near bomb shelters and so it spread quickly in them. The gas was concentrated and in a place where people thought they were safe."
The paramedic said many victims had expanded irises and loss of motor control, with a high number suffocating from the gas.
Rescue workers said many victims' bodies remain uncollected because of further shelling, lingering toxic gas odor and lack of protective gear.
Syrian state media has the denied chemical attacks, saying rebels in Douma were about to collapse and spreading false news.
According to the U.S.-based Syrian American Medical Society, at least 48 people have died, while the Union of Medical Care and Relief Organizations said that 70 deaths have been confirmed, the BBC reports.
The pro-opposition Ghouta Media Center said a helicopter dropped a barrel bomb containing Sarin gas.
Rescue workers said hundreds of people were showing signs and symptoms consistent with exposure to an organophosphorus compound.
One paramedic was quoted by the Guardian saying, "the attack was near bomb shelters and so it spread quickly in them. The gas was concentrated and in a place where people thought they were safe."
The paramedic said many victims had expanded irises and loss of motor control, with a high number suffocating from the gas.
Rescue workers said many victims' bodies remain uncollected because of further shelling, lingering toxic gas odor and lack of protective gear.
Syrian state media has the denied chemical attacks, saying rebels in Douma were about to collapse and spreading false news.