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Naval forces resort to zero-tolerance after attack alert
Following intelligence reports that the Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) was planning to target naval warships, the Indian Navy has thrown a high security cordon around its ships and establishments.Marine commandos have been deployed to protect the navy's only aircraft carrier INS Viraat which is undergoing an 18-month refit at the Cochin Shipyard Ltd. Intelligence reports indicated that LeT leaders were studying ways of attacking the Viraat while at refit in Kochi, possibly using commandeered chartered helicopters as missiles. A release from the Kochi-based southern naval command informed that sentries guarding naval assets have been issued orders to ensure a 'zero tolerance security protocol'. This means that they can fire upon intruders without warning. Reason why the public has been asked to stay away from naval warships: 'The general public is therefore advised to exercise utmost caution whilst transiting in the vicinity of naval assets. Pleasure boats and other crafts cruising along Ernakulam and Mattancherry channels are also advised not to close naval vessels or wharfs to less than 500 metres. This communiqué is being issued in the interest of public safety,' the release said. Posted by: john frum 2008-12-31 |
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