Several large explosions occurred in the town of Kuqa in central Xinjiang province

On 11 August 2008 local sources reported that several large explosions occurred in the town of Kuqa in central Xinjiang province. A police station and commercial buildings -- including supermarkets, hotels and government offices -- were reportedly targeted in the attacks. Authorities stated that the explosions occurred in the downtown area of Kuqa between 0320 local time (1920 UTC) and 0400 local time (2000 UTC). Officials indicated that the attacks were perpetrated using home made grenades and were an act of terrorism; 12 people were killed. Witnesses reported hearing heavy gunfire immediately after the blasts, while officials pursued those responsible. While no group has claimed responsibility for the attacks, Chinese officials are conducting an investigation into the incident; however, three of the alleged terrorists escaped