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| Sunday, 23 March 2003 |
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Security |  |
| News Business Features Editorial
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Tight security cordon around embassies by JAYAMPATHY JAYASINGHE And ANTON NONIS A security blanket has been thrown on diplomatic missions and other vital installations in Colombo that are susceptible for attacks by disgruntled political elements, mischief makers and rabble rousers, capitalising on the war in Iraq. Processions, demonstrations and picketing in front of diplomatic missions in Colombo have also been banned during this period to avoid trouble. But peaceful processions will be allowed elsewhere in the city. Anti-war sentiments have been running high in many quarters, since the US began its attack on Iraq early Thursday, and fears expressed that the protesters may use the opportunity to create unrest. Interior Minister John Amaratunga who addressed representatives from foreign missions at his ministry on Thursday said that security at foreign diplomatic missions and residences of diplomats have been tightened during the period of war in Iraq. The Inspector General of Police, T. E. Anandarajah said that a security contingency plan has been put into effect to provide security for diplomatic and other vital places in Colombo. The police would take steps to prevent vehicles being parked opposite diplomatic missions during this period. Meanwhile tight security cover have been provided for several embassies including the US Embassy, British High Commission, the Spanish Embassy and the Australian High Commission, which are vulnerable to attacks after the war began in Iraq. The Diplomatic Protection Unit (DPU) have also been entrusted with the task of protecting the residences of these diplomatic missions. Asked whether security arrangements would continue indefinitely, DIG Gamage, head of DPU, said that security would provided as long as there was a need for it. The Army's Brigade for protection of Colombo City (OCC) have been entrusted with the task of guarding strategic points in Colombo. Under the Vienna convention countries are bound to provide security to diplomatic missions and other installations during war. |
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