The United States is ramping up security across the country and urging people to stay alert over the Independence Day holiday weekend over fears of a terrorist threat.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Department of Homeland Security and National Counterterrorism Center have all warned of an increased risk of attacks during the long Fourth of July weekend.
New York State is ratcheting up its monitoring of celebrations and events on Saturday, expected to draw large crowds to America’s biggest city.
“We are keenly aware that New York State remains a top target for terrorists,” Governor Andrew Cuomo said.
“As we celebrate with family and friends this Independence Day, I urge all New Yorkers to not only remember the freedoms that we hold dear, but also remain cautious of their surroundings and learn to recognize and report suspicious activity.
“Other major cities, including the capital Washington, were also on heightened guard, although there were not thought to be any specific threats. “Our nation is under threat, our law enforcement, our military are under threat, so we take the threat seriously,” ABC News quoted US Park Police Chief Robert MacLean as saying.
