NCR on high alert as LeT men said to be in area

As many as 20-21 Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) members have entered the country under the directions of Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), as per an intelligence alert, and consequently, security in the national Capital and neighbouring states has been stepped up multifold.

The alert, received just after the Manchester attacks, has prompted the security agencies across India to maintain the highest level of alertness. Accessed by DNA, the alert read, “Under directions of ISI, a group of 20-21 terrorists of LeT has entered India recently and is placed in Mumbai, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Delhi. There plan is to carry out a 26/11-type incident in India.” The alert was sent to other vulnerable cities as well.

Senior police officers said additional force has been ensured at crowded market places, such as Connaught Place, Sarojini Nagar, Lajpat Nagar, Karol Bagh, and other crowded areas, such as inter-state bus stations and shopping malls. The Railway Protection Force (RPF) has also been directed to step up the vigil at stations, and watchtowers have been erected in crowded areas. Other security agencies concerned, including the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), that secures airports and the Delhi Metro, has also been alerted.

“All those entering bus terminals and railway stations with luggage are being scanned thoroughly and a strict vigil is being maintained. Armed men have been deployed on watchtowers and announcements are being made to keep the visitors alert. Delhi Police dog squad and anti-terror squad commandoes have been deployed, as required,” a senior police officer said.

Security at the Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) has been stepped up as well, and armed men have been deployed inside terminal buildings. “Flight marshals have been directed to keep an eye on the air side threat.

Additional pickets have been raised on the approach road to both terminals and frequency of the anti-sabotage checks has been increased. Regular patrolling on both the city side and the air side is being ensured by the Quick Response Teams (QRTs). Additional deployment in Delhi Metro has also been ensured,” a senior CISF officer said.

Officers have requested the civilians to stay alert and inform the police about any suspicious happening. 

Measures taken

After the intelligence alert was received, Delhi police has deployed additional forces at markets, stations, airports. 
Airport and metro stations have increased security check-ins to ensure safety of the commuters.