Israel warns of imminent attack in India, including Goa

Goa, January 1, 2016: Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar on Saturday downplayed the possibility of a terrorism threat in the State even as Goa Police is on its toes to provide security and prevent any incident. His statement came after the Israeli government asked its citizens travelling to India to be on alert in various places, including Goa, as it warned of an ‘immediate and severe’ risk.

Israel’s Counter Terrorism Bureau issued an advisory warning its citizens of an immediate threat of attack against western and tourist targets, particularly in the south-west of India that included Goa.

Parsekar, however, denied any specific terror threat. “There is no specific terror alert received from central intelligence agencies related to the New Year festivities. I have anyway asked the police to ensure security across the State and keep me updated about the situation,” he said.

The advisory stated that Israelis should focus on events in the coming days related to the Christian New Year holiday.

“The south-west part of the country — which covers popular holiday destinations such as Goa, Pune, Mumbai and Cochin — is particularly at risk,” the advisory said.

No police officer was available for comments despite repeated attempts by Herald.

– herald goa