Security at US establishments beefed up after Saddam's execution

New Delhi, Dec 30 (UNI) Security at and around American establishments in the Capital, including the US embassy, was tightened following deposed Iraqi President Saddam Hussein's execution in Iraq this morning.

Additional security measures have been put in place at all the three official premises of the US in the capital -- the United States embassy at Chanakyapuri, American Centre on Kasturba Gandhi Marg and the US Information Service on Hailey Road, said a senior police official.

''Besides general security being beefed up, additional measures have been take to prevent any untoward incident in the wake of Saddam Hussein's execution.'' While refusing to elaborate on the additional measures, the officer, however, added that vigilance had been stepped up around all American establishments.

Delhi Police spokesman Rajan Bhagat said besides routine measures security forces have been alerted in sensitive areas.

Strict vigilance was being maintained all over the city, specially in communally sensitive pockets, and forces sensitised in the wake of the development, he added.

Meanwhile, patrol vans were spotted at several places in 'VIP areas' of the Capital and additional police pickets set up for maintaining law and order.

Several checkposts were also put up to screen vehicles.

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