Damascus: Mid-day news update 4-30-13

The update from Damascus and its suburbs is provided by Shahed News, a network of vetted Syrian citizen journalists providing independent, accurate and reliable news from Damascus and its suburbs.

Damascus:

* A large blast occurred near the Internal Affairs Ministry in al-Marjeh. It resulted in widespread damage of the surrounding buildings and businesses. The ministry said 13 were killed and tens were injured.

* Mortar shell lands on the duty-free area in al-Baramkeh. Another shell hit al-Kurashi alley, in al-Midan, near the church.

* [Regime forces] renew the heavy artillery bombardment on Qabon and Barzeh downtown.

Outer Damascus:

* The [Syrian] air force raids the cities of Darayya and Mouadamiya this morning. The cities of Zamakla, Irbin, and several areas in Eastern Ghouta were bombed with tanks and artillery.