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Cote d'Ivoire in tightened security against terrorists: minister

Xinhua, March 18, 2016 Adjust font size:

Cote d'Ivoire's Interior Minister Hamed Bakayoko said Thursday the country must not harbour any "dormant cells" of Al-Qaida in Islamic Maghreb (AQIM), the Islamist group responsible for Sunday's deadly attack in the country.

During a meeting in Abidjan with officials of Muslim community, the minister urged the public to double vigilance and help security forces in their mission.

"We must block the entry of terrorists. The anti-terrorism plan has been activated. We shall continue to reinforce security," he said, adding Cote d'Ivoire "is not a place where they can prosper."

Gunmen on Sunday stormed three hotels in the seaside resort of Grand Bassam, some 30 km from Abidjan, killing at least 19 people -- 16 civilians and three soldiers.

Three gunmen were also killed during the attack, which is the first by Islamist militants in Cote d'Ivoire.

While addressing the country on Monday, President Alassane Ouattara said the country would not be intimidated by terrorists. He also urged the public not to get divided along religious lines.

Grand-Bassam, a UNESCO World Heritage site some 30 km southeast of the commercial capital Abidjan, is popular with both locals and foreigners. Endit