Chemical weapons inspectors attacked in Syria

DAMASCUS , Syria, May 27 (UPI) -- Chemical weapons inspectors were forced to cancel their plans to Kfar Zeita, Syria, on Tuesday, when they came under attack.

An explosive device struck a vehicle of the international team of 12 Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons inspectors, which was en route to the village where chemical warfare attacks involving chlorine gas were reported.

The attack came after a United Nations escort convoy could not further assure the team of safety. The team proceeded without escort, but did not arrive at Kfar Zeita. No injuries were reported.

The Syrian government and rebel forces each blamed the other for the attack, with a government news agency claiming the inspectors were kidnapped by "terrorist groups."

Rebel groups in the area claimed the government instigated the attack to prevent inspectors from reaching the site.