Saudi Arabia – Government Fears Al-Qaeda Disguises

Saudi Arabia fears members of Al-Qaeda may disguise themselves as journalists and use camera equipment to hide bombs in order to target government dignitaries and state guests. According to the English language daily, Asharq Al-Awsat, government warnings are expected to lead to increased security procedures and rigorous inspection of journalists covering official events.

In March Saudi Arabia announced that more than 100 people had been arrested in connection with an alleged Al-Qaeda suicide plot to blow up oil installations.

Saudi interior ministry spokesman Major General Mansour al-Turki stressed the need for media representatives to carry credentials identifying them as journalists while on duty.

Media sources monitoring Al-Qaeda believe it may use the media in order to achieve its objectives.

Several journalists from the Arab daily, al-Watan, are being protected by police since their editorial office came under fire by presumed Islamic militants.

via Read Full Article.