Syrian state media say mortar shells have struck in central Damascus, killing 12

DAMASCUS, Syria – Syrian state media say mortar shells have exploded in central Damascus, killing 12 people and wounding scores.

The official SANA news agency says four shells struck in the capital’s Shaghour neighbourhood on Tuesday morning.

An official at the Damascus Police Command told The Associated Press that at least 50 people were wounded in the attack and that two of the mortar shells hit a school complex. The official spoke on condition of anonymity in line with regulations.

SANA said terrorists were behind the attacks — a term used by President Bashar Assad’s government for rebels fighting to oust him.

No one immediately claimed responsibility for the attack. Rebels have frequently fired mortars into the capital from Damascus’ opposition-held suburbs.