Jama Masjid firing: Red alert sounded in Delhi

Barricades dotted New Delhi roads and gun-totting policemen kept a tight vigil as a red alert was today sounded in the capital after two unidentified men opened fire at foreign tourists outside the historic Jama Masjid.

The firing incident in which two Taiwanese nationals were injured was followed by an explosion inside a car triggered by a crudely assembled device.

The incidents, police said, was apparently intended to cause terror ahead of the Commonwealth Games.

"A red alert has been sounded and we are conducting checks at various points," Karnal Singh, joint commissioner of police (Northern Range), said.

Police has erected barricades on stretches across the capital and conducting checks.

"Checking has also been intensified at all entry points to the capital from neighbouring areas. We are also randomly checking motorcycles," a senior police official said.

Parking of vehicles outside Commonwealth Games venues and iconic buildings have been banned in the wake of firing outside Jama Masjid.

An order was issued in this regard by lieutenant governor Tejinder Khanna this evening.

"Parking of vehicles outside Games venues and iconic and important buildings have been banned," the official said.

Police will also check vehicles passing through these areas.