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Roundup: Geneva raises alert level as search for suspects linked to Paris attacks underway

Xinhua, December 11, 2015 Adjust font size:

Geneva increased its level of security alert on Thursday as law enforcement personnel actively tracked down individuals thought to be linked to the investigation of the Paris terrorist attacks in November.

Heightened security measures have been implemented in potential target areas including Geneva airport and international organizations such as the United Nations' Palais des Nations where security guards carrying sub-machine guns and bullet-proof vests are guarding the building's entrance.

This follows information sent Wednesday by the confederation to law enforcement authorities in Geneva signaling suspects were believed to be located in Geneva or in the Geneva region.

Local newspaper Tribune de Geneve stated Swiss authorities are looking for a total of six men, four of whom have suspected ties to the Islamic State (IS).

Geneva's security department spokeswoman Emmanuelle Lo Verso told Swiss public radio ATS on Thursday that "we have gone from a vague threat to a precise threat."

The Swiss city, which is near France, first raised security levels after the Paris attacks which killed 130 people on Nov. 13.

According to Geneva's Security Department, investigations are currently being carried out in collaboration with national and international security services to find the individuals in question.

Following reports of "precise" terrorist threats in Geneva, the city's state prosecutor also announced Thursday that a penal procedure has been opened in view of acts preparatory to the commission of an offence.

This measure seeks to target individuals who, in accordance with a plan, carry out specific technical or organizational measures to commit serious crimes.

Though there is no indication of any specific increased risk against UN staff in Geneva, the UN headquarters in Geneva also increased its security measures at UN premises in the Swiss city.

Michael Moller, the Director-General of the UN Office at Geneva, said that the preventive measures are commensurate with the information received from Swiss authorities and other sources about police operations being conducted in the city of Geneva and the region. Endit