Possible terror plot in Germany probed
US officials told to raise security, remain vigilant
WASHINGTON -- US and German agencies are investigating a potential terror plot against US military bases, buildings, and citizens in Germany, officials said yesterday.
Authorities had no indication of an imminent attack within Germany or the United States, FBI special agent Richard Kolko said. "We remind the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the appropriate law enforcement authorities," he said.
The possible plot was first made public on April 20 when the US Embassy in Berlin issued a warning, telling US diplomatic and consular facilities in Germany to increase security and asking Americans there to increase their vigilance. Security outside US bases in Germany was also increased.
An American counterterrorism official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the concern -- then and now -- is that US military bases, American tourists and other US interests in Germany could be attacked. The official said information gathered on the threat suggested that the plot could involve bombs or small arms. The threat information was not specific about the potential attack's time or location, the official added.
The official said counterterrorism authorities believed Islamic extremists were behind the planning.
