The New York Times
WASHINGTON - The Coast Guard issued a nationwide alert this weekend, saying it had received reports of a possible maritime threat against the nation’s ports and harbors. It recommended security action by Coast Guard personnel and people in the maritime industry.
Cmdr. Jim McPherson, a Coast Guard spokesman in Washington, said he could not speculate on targets or security measures taken in response to the reports. But he said the reports concerned potential threats from swimmers and divers.
In New York, the Coast Guard stepped up its patrols. “We have got more units in the area, and we are doing more patrolling,” Petty Officer Frank Bari, a spokesman, said.
Commander McPherson asked that anyone observing “suspicious activities” call (800) 424-8802.
Tom Ridge, director of homeland security, was asked about the threats today on the CNN program “Late Edition With Wolf Blitzer.”
He replied, “We’ve learned that Al Qaeda had a very sophisticated operation and that their interest in training people to undermine our way of life also included maritime and port interests.” He added, “To send out that knowledge to port directors and port authorities, along with accompanying protective measures, is precisely the kind of thing that the federal government should do and has done through the Coast Guard.”