TEXT - Prime Minister's statement on Mumbai attack

NEW DELHI (Reuters) - Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said on Thursday that the attacks in Mumbai which killed more than 100 people were probably plotted by a group based in a neighbouring country.

Following is a text of his televised address: -----------------------------------------------------------------

"The dastardly terror attacks that took place in Mumbai last night and today leading to the loss of many precious lives and injuries to many others have deeply shocked the nation.

"I strongly condemn these acts of senseless violence against innocent people, including guests from foreign countries.

"I offer my deepest condolences to the bereaved families and sympathies to those injured. The Government will take all necessary measures to look after the wellbeing of the affected families, including medical treatment of injured.

"The well-planned and well-orchestrated attacks, probably with external linkages, were intended to create a sense of panic, by choosing high profile targets and indiscriminately killing foreigners.

"I salute the courage and patriotism of the police officers, including the Chief of the Anti-Terror Squad, Shri (Mr.) Hemant Karkare and men who have laid down their lives in fighting these terrorists.

"I assure the country that we will attend in an urgent and serious manner to police reform so that the law and order authorities can work unitedly, effectively and in a determined manner to tackle such threats to national integrity.

"We are not prepared to countenance a situation in which the safety and security of our citizens can be violated with impunity by terrorists.