Pak govt beefs up security for three ministers

Islamabad, June 29: Additional security has been provided to three federal ministers by the Pakistan government here on the basis of intelligence reports that militants in the troubled South Waziristan tribal region have decided to eliminate them.

The ministers had been advised yesterday to curtail their movement and, if possible, avoid going to their constituencies for some time, Dawn newspaper reported.

Minister for Interior Aftab Ahmad Khan Sherpao, Minister for Railways Sheikh Rashid Ahmad and Minister for Political Affairs Amir Muqam have been provided bullet-proof automobiles.

Mr Sherpao, who survived an assassination attempt a few months ago in Charsadda, is being described as a prime target.

Intelligence agencies, keeping an eye on developments in the militancy-stricken Waziristan region, have intercepted information indicating that the militants had planned to target the three ministers.

It is learnt that, on the orders of pro-Taliban militant commander Baitullah Mehsud, more than three suicide bombers have been sent to attack the ministers.

Senior intelligence officials have advised the ministers to avoid travelling to Rawalpindi and adjoining areas. However, Sheikh Rashid have said that it was not possible for him to avoid going to his native Rawalpindi, particularly when elections were round the corner.

Sources said Baitullah Mehsud had decided to target the ministers after four militants were arrested with RDX explosives in Islamabad a week ago.

UNI