Monday, September 1, 2008 Free Headline Alerts
ABU DHABI — The Saudi Interior Ministry said authorities have completed massive security preparations to prevent an insurgency strike during the month of the Muslim fast of Ramadan, which began on Sept. 1.
The Interior Ministry has begun fingerprinting arrivals in Saudi Arabia during the current pilgrimage. The ministry said it was forming a data base of the fingerprints and photographs of fugitives and other suspected insurgents.
"This measure is unrelated to any terror ploy or plan," Al Turki said.
Officials also cited increased security cooperation with neighboring Yemen, a key haven for Al Qaida. In late August, Yemen captured 30 Al Qaida operatives, including a senior commander, said to have plotted a series of strikes in Saudi Arabia during Ramadan.
"One can imagine the amount of security and police work involved in screening such a large number of people," Interior Ministry spokesman Lt. Gen. Mansour Al Turki said.
"The security forces are alert and they are keeping a watch around the clock," Al Turki said. "Suspects are not detained by security forces without any rhyme or reason. Suspects, in fact, are first questioned and their movements are closely monitored, before they are arrested."
On Aug. 25, Australia and Britain issued warnings against traveling to Saudi Arabia. The two countries reported Al Qaida plans to attack Western interests in Saudi Arabia.
"Australia continues to receive reports that terrorists are planning attacks against a range of Western interests including residential compounds and gatherings of foreigners," the Australian government said. "Terrorist attacks could occur at any time, anywhere in Saudi Arabia, including in Riyad, Al Khobar and other major cities."
Al Turki, who denied any specific threat, said Saudi authorities continued to search for Al Qaida operatives. He said more than 700 insurgency suspects were arrested in 2008.
"Saudi Arabia is adequately prepared to face any emergency, and we are prepared throughout the year to cope with any eventuality," Al Turki said. "We are always ready to foil such plans."