Andhra Pradesh - Visakhapatnam   

Internal security scheme on the anvil, says CP

Photo: C.V. Subrahmanyam

Strategy meet: Police Commissioner N. Sambasiva Rao holding a meeting with representatives of the industry and hoteliers in the city on Friday. —

VISAKHAPATNAM: Commissioner of Police N. Sambasiva Rao held emergency meetings with representatives of the industry and the hospitality sector, in the wake of the terrorist attacks in Mumbai, on Friday.

Later, addressing the media, the city police chief said that industry heads had been asked to step up vigil on their premises with the involvement of top-level executives, who should review it on a weekly basis. He said that the industry also appreciated the concern of the police in this regard. Mr. Sambasiva Rao said that the managements were also urged to purchase the required security equipment and the police would offer security training, if needed. They were asked to take extra precaution at the entry and exit gates and crowded places like seminar halls and dining halls.

He said that hoteliers in the city were asked to inform the police whenever VIPs like scientists and eminent persons from different walks of life stayed at their hotels. They could seek the assistance of police. The Police Commissioner said that information on people who had come from outside and were living in rented houses would be gathered. He sought cooperation of house owners and the general public in this regard.

Replying to queries, Mr. Sambasiva Rao said an internal security scheme was under preparation to thwart terrorists from targeting the city. He, however, perceived no threat from the coast in view of continual patrolling by the Eastern Naval Command and the Coast Guard. He recalled that the Coast Guard had intercepted three Sri Lankan motorboats that strayed into our waters.

Responding to another query, he admitted that Visakhapatnam being an important city on the east coast with the presence of many industries was vulnerable to attacks.

He said that three foreigners had entered the city as stowaways in merchant vessels during the last one and a half years. They were detained at the port and sent back. Mr. Sambasiva Rao said that the marine police station would be opened in less than a week.

He admitted that there was no security at the Fishing Harbour and said that aspect would be taken into account. A red alert has been sounded and security has been beefed up in the city.

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