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At least 15 British Nationals killed in Tunisia

North Africa Minister Tobias Ellwood confirmed at least 15 British nationals had been killed in Tunisia, and warned the number might rise.

On Friday 26th June, 38 people were killed and another 37 injured when a man with links to the Islamic State group opened fire on a beach near two tourist hotels in the Tunisian resort town of Sousse. Officials say one gunman identified as Seifeddine Rezgui, has been shot dead but it has been feared that he did not act alone.

A press release from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office confirmed that at least 15 British Nationals have been killed with fears that the number rise once identities can be clarified.

This evening, Minister for the Middle East and North Africa Tobias Ellwood gave an update on the situation in Tunisia. Mr Ellwood said: “Sadly I can confirm that at least 15 British nationals were killed in yesterday’s atrocity. But I should stress that the number may well rise as several more have been seriously injured in this horrific attack.”

“The Foreign Office is doing everything possible. Our Crisis Centre has been working round the clock since the attack, and we have mobilised our Rapid Deployment Team designed to provide urgent UK assistance during events such as this. A UK police team has also been deployed to assist with the process of identification of victims. FCO staff are on the ground already, and are in hospitals and hotels looking after British nationals in conjunction with tour operators and airlines. And several flights have left today to bring people home, and more are planned. A further team of consular staff and experts are arriving today to further strengthen our support.”

Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond also said victims were ‘dressed for the beach, not carrying ID physically on them’ he added:”There are a significant number of victims who have not been positively identified at this time and it is highly likely that a significant proportion of them will be British’.

The Queen sent her condolences to the families of victims in a statement from Buckingham Palace, she said: "Prince Philip and I were shocked to learn of the attack on British tourists in Tunisia on Friday. We send our sincere condolences to the families of those who were killed and our deepest sympathy to the people who are still fighting for their lives in hospital, and those who have been seriously injured. Our thoughts and prayers are with those of all countries who have been affected by this terrible event."

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