Govt enhances security during festive season

The government now says that it has put in place measures to enhance security levels and preparedness to detect, deter and disrupt terrorist activities.

In a public watch notice by the Ministry of Interior and Coordination of National Government, citizens have been challenged to play a role in counter-terrorism and prevention of criminal activities by being vigilant and reporting any suspicious activity, items and persons.

In the notice, the public has been asked to remain vigilant at all times and avoid crowded places.

“Shopping malls, entertainment spots, restaurants and places of worship, buses and bus stops, airports, railway stations, ferries, drop-off points and learning institutions are potential soft targets,” read the notice in part.

The Interior Ministry urged those who own, operate, manage or work in such places to conduct thorough searches, secure emergency exits to prevent unauthorized used, check all areas including washrooms regularly for unattended items, assess emergency preparedness, report any suspicious activity and break routines to avoid traps.

The Ministry further asked that stringent measures to be put in place to control and screen personnel, visitors, luggage and vehicles.

Citizens have been asked to look out for suspicious persons who are in unauthorized areas or appear to be lost, suspicious persons dressed inappropriately or are overdressed for a given weather condition or suspicious persons who avoid eye contact, who are nervous and appear to be in a hurry.

The country has been on high security alert following numerous terror attacks.