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PREPARING SOUTH AFRICA FOR THE WORLD |
Security preparations for the 2010 World Cup are under the spotlight following reports that terrorists could be using the tournament as a platform to launch attacks. Project 2010 spoke to Lorna Daniels, the spokesperson for the National Intelligence Agency about these, and other concerns...  Firstly, there have been media reports that the unprecedented two-day closure of the US Embassy in Pretoria and of consulates elsewhere was the result of intercepted cellphone communication detailing planned attacks on American interests in South Africa. Whatever transpired, there was clearly a serious threat. Can you comment on this? No, I don't want to discuss that matter. An expert on Islamic militancy - Hussein Solomon - has subsequently warned that the South African intelligence services are inadequately prepared for the potential threat of terrorism during the World Cup. We are saying that the preparations are well underway. Basically, we are on top of the situation and we are confident of hosting a secure tournament. The intelligence services and the police are working closely together. We have a blueprint for hosting international events with great success in the past and, of course, we've also learned from other countries which have hosted events of this magnitude. Are there concerns about government and Home Affairs wanting to open up the borders to allow for the free flow of visitors during 2010 - doesn't this worry you? Let me say that I'm satisfied with our border controls and they are being strengthened. We are always looking at ways of improving the system and the Minister is looking at establishing a border management agency that will contribute to ensuring that concerns are addressed. Are you not concerned that terrorists could use 2010 as a platform to launch attacks on another country? Obviously, there will be a large influx of people for the tournament and the international spotlight will be on this country, but the reality is that this country has never been a target for terror groups. But what about the terror attacks in the Western Cape in the late 1990s? No, that was a localised thing - that was something that arose out of a reaction to gangsterism and drugs. It wasn't an international group targeting South Africa. more interviews... |
