Taiwan: US sites get security boost

Authorities have tightened security at American facilities and institutions nationwide, the Taiwan National Police Administration (警政署) said yesterday.

The increased security comes as a result of the terrorist attacks in New York and Washington on Tuesday.

The American Chamber of Commerce in Taipei (AmCham) has postponed the celebration party of its 50th anniversary, which had been scheduled for tomorrow.

Due to the cancellation of a trip to Taipei by former president Bill Clinton, AmCham has canceled a reception in his honor scheduled for tomorrow at the Grand Hyatt Taipei.

Wang Chin-wang (王進旺), director-general of the National Police Administration, said yesterday that he has ordered SWAT teams and other law enforcement forces to stay on alert.

"A contingency protection plan has been proposed. We are focusing on strengthening security and protecting American property and citizens, as well as other foreign expatriates," Wang said.

"We have instituted special protection efforts for American citizens who are currently staying in Taiwan, as well as for visitors of Israeli citizenship."

Vacationing and off-duty police officers were recalled for this special security clampdown and the National Police Administration is considering the addition of more officers for special duty.

Seaports and airports are the main concerns for police.

"We will pay more attention to cabin checks on international and domestic flights, as well as on ships traveling the high seas," said an officer from the National Police Administration, who asked to remain anonymous.

"At the American Institute in Taiwan's Taipei office, for example, we have posted two guards on each shift instead of one as usual," the officer said. "In addition to this measure, we have also tightened security by adding more vehicle patrols in the area of the AIT."

AmCham President Richard Henson said the hearts of the US officials working in Taiwan were heavy in the aftermath of the attack.

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families and friends of the people who died or were injured in New York City, Washington DC and in the related airline crashes suffered by US carriers," Henson said.

"We applaud the bravery and dedication of the emergency personnel who worked so hard to save lives."