Australia warns of 'high risk' Commonwealth Games terrorism

The Australian Government has advised that there is a "high risk of terrorist attack" in Delhi as the Indian capital prepares to host the Commonwealth Games from 3rd to 14th October.

In its latest travel advisory notice, Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs said in a statement: "Australians in New Delhi should be aware that the Commonwealth Games will be held in a security environment where there is a high risk of terrorism.

"Pay close attention to your personal security at all times and monitor the media for information about possible new safety or security risks. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time anywhere in India with little or no warning.

"We continue to receive reporting that terrorists plan to attack public places, including hotels and tourist locations, in New Delhi, Mumbai and other major cities. Terrorists may also be planning attacks against Indian political and security interests."

On Sunday, two Taiwanese nationals were injured after being shot outside Delhiâs Jama Masjid, the city's largest mosque.

However, Lalit Bhanot, Secretary General of the Commonwealth Games organising committee, said the shooting would have "no impact" on the event, stating "the Ministry of Home Affairs and Delhi police have made elaborate arrangements to provide the Commonwealth Games athletes and officials a safe and secure environment."

The Australian Commonwealth Games Association Chief Executive, Perry Crosswhite confirmed yesterday that it is aware of, and has sought briefings on, Sunday's incident in Delhi.

In a statement from Delhi, Crosswhite said that it does not appear that the incident gives rise to any threat within the Games environment, stating "according to the authorities here it is not Games-related and our own Federal Government has not found it necessary to change its travel advisory for India.

"At the moment we do not see a need to change our planning which continues to maintain a high level of security awareness.

"We will continue to take advice from our own consultants, from the Australian Government and most importantly, the relevant Indian authorities.

"We are conscious, in the light of the Australian Government's advisory, that incidents of this type may occur in India and therefore should not give rise to increased level of concern.

"The ACGA remains of the view that there is an acceptable level of security being provided for our 2010 Commonwealth Games Team in New Delhi."

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