The National Police Agency (NPA) yesterday held terrorist attack drills in Taipei’s Shipai District (石牌) focused on next year’s Summer Universiade in Taipei.
The drill took place at Special Police First Headquarters.
One scenario had people lined up in front of a booth for a bag check before a sporting event when a “terrorist” suddenly pulls out a pistol and begins to shot at polices officer and civilians.
Photo: Chien Jung-fong, Taipei Times
After detonating an explosive, the “terrorist” was subdued.
Members of the Special Police later besieged and raided a makeshift building, arresting other “terrorists.”
One police officer rappelled from a building before engaging in a brawl and subduing a “suspect.”
Photo: Chien Jung-fong, Taipei Times
Sniffer dogs weaved in and out of the venue in search of explosives.
Police officers also showcased their long-range shooting skills, hitting targets about 75m away.
The agency said that an estimated 20,000 police officers are to be dispatched to ensure the safety of more than 10,000 international athletes attending the Universiade in August next year.
Photo: Chien Jung-fong, Taipei Times
NPA Director-General Chen Kuo-en (陳國恩) said that officers from Taipei, New Taipei City and Taoyuan, where the events are to take place, participated in the drill.
Chen said that although the nation is a low-risk area for terrorist attacks, such attacks are increasing worldwide.
Citing a recent incident involving a homemade pipe bomb that went off on a train at the Songshan Railway Station injuring 25 passengers, Chen said that the importance of security cannot be underestimated, adding that the NPA has been exchanging information on anti-terrorism measures with its overseas counterparts.
He said that the Universiade is a major international sporting event and that the agency is confident about ensuring the safety of spectators and athletes.
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