Security high for Bali bombing memorial

Bali, already on edge following deadly suicide bombings just 10 days ago, stepped up security ahead of services yesterday to remember the 202 people killed in attacks three years ago on the resort island.

Snipers will be deployed on building tops surrounding a memorial close to ground zero, a now-empty lot in the heart of the tourist district where al-Qaeda-linked terrorists blew up two packed nightclubs on Oct. 12, three years ago.

Thousands of soldiers, police and intelligence officers also will be stationed at nearby beaches, resorts and businesses.

Despite the tensions, police urged people to attend today's commemorations.

"Please come and mark the day," said Bali police spokesman Colonel Antonius Reniban. "Nothing makes terrorists happier than seeing frightened people."

Before the 2002 bombings, the largely Hindu island enjoyed a reputation for peace and tranquility, an exception in the world's most populous Muslim country, which for years has been wracked by ethnic and separatist violence.

That image was shattered when an Islamic militant walked into Paddy's nightclub on a busy Saturday night, setting off a bomb attached to his vest. Minutes later, a larger car bomb exploded outside the nearby Sari Club. Many of those killed were revelers fleeing the first blast. Eighty-eight were Australian.

Several rallies have been held in recent days calling for Imam Samudra, Amrozi bin Nurhasyim and Ali Ghufron -- three men sentenced to death for the bombings -- to be executed soon and more protests were planned for today.

Citing security concerns, the three were relocated on Tuesday from Bali to a prison on the nearby island of Nusakambangan, said national police chief General Sutanto, without elaborating.

Relatives, survivors and foreign tourists attending today's memorial service will have to pass through metal detectors and have their bags checked.

After prayers and a moment of silence, family members will be invited to lay wreaths at the monument engraved with names of the dead, Australian Embassy spokeswomen Elizabeth O'Neill said.

Among those expected to attend was Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer.

Tourists deserted Bali in the aftermath of the attacks. But over the last year, visitors have returned to the island in greater numbers than before the blasts.

But the Oct. 1 bombings of three crowded restaurants threatened to reverse that recovery and has brought back painful memories to family members and friends of the victims.

"There is no single day that is any good. It doesn't leave you," said Australian Steven Hawkins, whose 28-year-old son Timothy died in the blast. "We were a close family, I don't think you will ever recover."

Hawkins said he would attend the unveiling of a Bali memorial in the Australian state of Victoria, rather than make the trip to Bali.

Australia and many other foreign governments have urged their citizens in recent years to avoid nonessential travel to Indonesia, citing the risk of terrorist attack.