With the help from foreign security agents, the government of Trinidad and Tobago is stepping up security measures ahead of the Fifth Summit of the Americas to be held here on April 17-19.
Security is very tight in and around the Hyatt Regency Hotel, the main venue of the summit and in the adjacent International Financial Center where some 1,200 media representatives work. International security officials from organizations such as the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Secret Service and U.S. Department of Homeland Security are expected to join the host's security efforts on Thursday, according to the local Guardian newspaper.
Also on patrol are dogs from the U.S. Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms Bureau (ATF), searching for concealed weapons and improvise explosive Devices (IED). Divers from the Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard were seen searching the sea waters near the meeting venue for explosives.
Kirk Jean Baptiste, a spokesperson for the Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard said the security forces will set up a maritime blockade, protecting the coasts of Trinidad island. Barbados, Jamaica, Brazil and Bahamas are also assisting security for the summit, she said.
Policemen stand guard near the Caribbean Princess in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, April 16, 2009. Security was tightened ahead of the Fifth Summit of the Americas slated for April 17-19 Round-the-clock patrols have been increased in hot spots of the Trinidad island and police are paying special attention to certain gang members.
A policeman stands guard near the Caribbean Princess in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, April 16, 2009. Security was tightened ahead of the Fifth Summit of the Americas slated for April 17-19 On Wednesday, Trinidad and Tobago National Security Minister Martin Joseph met with security officials for several hours to discuss security plans.
Leaders of 34 participating nations and UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon will attend the summit. Security arrangements for U.S. President Barack Obama is expected to be very tight. The president will lead a 1,000-member delegation, including security teams. An elite team of security officers comprising Trinidad and U.S. special forces will guard Ban.
Source:Xinhua
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