Rakhine town beefs up security following alleged bomb threat

Rakhine town beefs up security following alleged bomb threat

Published on Sunday, 18 August 2013 16:28

Police members tighten security in monastery on August 17 (Photo/EMG)

Authorities have tightened security in a town of Myanmar's western state of Rakhine following rumours about bomb attacks.

Security has reportedly been in place especially in and around religious buildings, hospitals and schools as of Friday.

Locals said police and army troops have been deployed in the villages of Buthidaung Township in Maungdaw district, warning the villagers to be on alert.

A police member said security was in place but the situation in the town was calm.

"Various rumours have emerged. As precautionary measures, we are tightening security at Buddhist buildings following reports that Islamist terrorists will carry out bomb attacks. At present, we have heavy rainfall and the situation in the town is stable," said the policeman.

"We villagers are taking security measures together with security forces. Rumour has it that terrorists are here to commit bomb attacks. Now the army troops are in Buddhist monasteries and schools for security purposes," said a local resident from Ward-3 of the Buthidaung town.

Authorities concerned issued a directive earlier this month, saying district and township level departments and offices to be on alert due to potential suicide bomb attacks in Maungdaw district.

Regarding the military's sudden security measures in the Buddhist monasteries, a township police officer said this had happened as usual.

"Security is taking place as usual and there are no special events. Security in monasteries has previously been in place. But, the arrival of some army troops is aimed at strengthening security," said the chief of Buthidaung Township Police Force on Saturday.

Source: http://www.news.myanmaronlinecentre.com/2013/08/19/rakhine-town-beefs-up-security-following-alleged-bomb-threat/