Germany scales back anti-terror measures

BERLIN: The German government said Tuesday it was scaling back the reinforced police presence put in place at train stations and airports in November, in response to evidence Islamist militants were planning an attack.

Security authorities have come to the conclusion that a progressive reduction of security measures introduced on Nov. 17, 2010 is possible, Interior Minister Thomas de Maiziere declared.

We will continue to pursue with high intensity all clues and indications in order to head off any danger to our country and the population, together with our international partners.

However, De Maiziere warned that it was too early to give the all clear.

Germany had beefed up security measures at crowded places after two U.S.-bound parcel bombs originating from Yemen were found to have passed through Cologne airport in western Germany.

Berlin was also told by an unidentified foreign partner militants were planning an attack in Germany in November. The information suggested Islamic extremists were plotting the attack.

Germany opposed the 2003 invasion of Iraq but has nearly 5,000 troops in Afghanistan under NATO command. The country has never experienced an attack by Muslim extremists on its own soil but it has long viewed itself as a potential target. The closest it has come to an attack was in July 2006 when Islamic militants placed suitcases with homemade bombs on two regional trains at Colognes main station. They failed to detonate, averting an almost certain bloodbath. AFP, Reuters