Death threat to PM under probe

The PM was advised by Special Branch that his security detail should be increased and that his public visits be carefully monitored.

Special Anti-Crime Unit (SAUTT) officers were also informed of the threat and have been assisting in providing background security for the PM.

Yesterday, acting National Security Minister Howard Chin Lee said he could not offer a comment on the matter, while acting Police Commissioner Glen Roach said the best person to comment on the matter is Police Commissioner Trevor Paul, who is in Caracas, Venezuela, attending a conference.

Special Branch sources revealed that the the Prime Minister is being monitored round the clock.

When the PM makes public visits, Special Branch and SAUTT officers make thorough checks and conduct background security.

On Wednesday, at a wreath-laying ceremony to mark the 15th anniversary of the attempted coup on July 27, 1990, the Prime Minister said, "And if today you find the Prime Minister has heightened security, it is because we are not unaware of a threat to the Prime Minister’s life at this time. "That’s the reality of the time in which we live."

The Prime Minister said Government was determined to be vigilant in "these troubled times." Newsday learnt that security has also been heightened around the official residence of the Prime Minister as well as his office.

Security arrangements at the Red House have also been reviewed and tightened.

According to Special Branch, the intelligence units have been briefed that the security of the country should now be top priority based on intelligence reports.

Intelligence reports suggest that a move to create instability in the country could occur at any time. Newsday learnt that the blimp, now in the hands of SAUTT, would be heavily utilised over the next few weeks.

The surveillance cameras in the blimp can record mobile conversations and detect vehicles carrying arms and ammunition.