ABC AUSTRALIA, 20/03/2003 14:07:27
Security alert from British embassy in Jakarta
The British embassy in Jakarta says terrorists may take advantage of tensions over
Iraq to launch an attack against Westerners.
It reiterated earlier advice against non-essential visits to the country, saying there
continues to be a high risk of terrorism against Westerners following the Bali
bombings last October and other attacks.
The mission says Britons already in Indonesia should consider leaving if their
presence is not essential, adding that its diplomatic staff has been reduced.
An estimated 4,000 Britons live in Indonesia, most in Jakarta and the embassy
advised those who stay to exercise extreme caution.
The Bali bombings blamed on regional terror group Jemaah Islamiyah killed 202
people, mostly foreigners.
An Islamic youth group called Anshor has threatened to force US and allied diplomats
to leave Indonesia if war breaks out.
Jakarta police have put off-duty officers on call to counter any protests and have
strengthened their presence at the embassies of the United States and its allies.
20/03/2003 14:07:27 | ABC Radio Australia News
© 2001 Australian Broadcasting Corporation |
