Tunisia Blasts: Suicide bomb attacks leave one dead, several injured

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At least one person has died following two terrorist attacks in downtown Tunis, with many more injured. Hundreds of policemen, national guard and anti-terror units were deployed after Thursday's attacks. The Islamic State extremist group has claimed responsibility for the attacks. CGTN's Adnen Chaouachi reports from Tunisia's capital.

A Municipal police officer wounded in the suicide attack perpetrated at the Avenue de France downtown Tunis, has died. Two police officers and three civilians were injured during this attack. The terrorist blew himself up in front of the police patrol. Eyewitnesses say the blast was strong.

HATEM BOUBAKRI EYEWITNESS "The scene was horrible. The attack is symbolic because it took place at a strategic location where thousands of Tunisians meet in the morning. It's a shopping avenue where several important buildings are located."

A second terrorist attempted to enter the anti-terrorism units' building. He blew himself up at the parking of the high-security facility. Analysts assert that terror cells aim to destabilize Tunisia economically and politically, a few months before the holding of the legislative and presidential elections.

SAID KHEZAMI JOURNALIST "The successive bombings mean that terrorists do not want Tunisians to live in peace. The whole political transition is the target. The attack hit the capital but will impact the economy because downtown Tunis is tourist destination."

Many Tunisians have gathered near the bombing site. They denounced the suicide attacks and expressed solidarity with the victims and the security forces.

FATHI EYEWITNESS "We send condolences to the family of the victim and all Tunisians. He's a martyr who died for the country. The security forces and the national army are the guardians of the state. We support them in their fight against terrorists who can't defeat Tunisians."

Tunisian President Beji Caid Essebsi, who is severely ill, was rushed to the military hospital in Tunis. 3 weeks ago, Caid Essebsi had declared a state of emergency nationwide to face a growing terror threat.

ADNEN CHAOUACHI TUNIS, TUNISIA "According to the Interior Minister, the anti-terrorism units have foiled dozens of terror plots in many regions. Over 30 suspects were arrested in recent months. However, the vigilance of the state did not prevent the bombing in Habib Bourguiba Avenue. Adnen Chaouachi, CGTN, Tunis."