FIU deployed at Islamabad airport

Published January 1, 2004

RAWALPINDI, Dec 31: At least three dozen 'close circuit television cameras' and 'explosive detectors' will be installed at Islamabad International Airport to boost security for the Saarc summit, an official source told Dawn on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, contingents of the ASF and Field Intelligence Unit (FIU) have been called from other airports for deployment at Islamabad airport. "The Airport Security Force personnel have been called from Muzaffarabad and Rawalakot airports," a source said.

He said CCT cameras were being brought from Karachi and would be fixed at different points. A control room will also be set up to monitor activities through CCT cameras.

Likewise, 'explosive detectors' will be installed at sensitive points on the airport premises. "The detector starts buzzing when it detects explosive material or device," a security official said.

Special units from the ASF, FIU and police in addition to hundreds of plain clothes special branch men are taking part in maintaining security during Saarc summit.

Strict checking of car parking, especially vehicles entering the airport premises and passengers' baggage, have been started since the suicide bombing attack on President Musharraf's convoy. "Passenger baggage, especially being carried by bachelors, is strictly being checked by the security staff right at the car parking," the security source said.