NJ Military Bases Increase Security

TRENTON, N.J.- New Jersey authorities on Sunday stepped up security to facilities in the state that they say could be possible terrorist targets following U.S. airstrikes in Afghanistan.

State Police Superintendent Carson Dunbar said a U.S. military response to the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks in New York and Washington had been anticipated, and augmenting security was a precaution.

Dunbar would not identify the facilities, nor would he specify just how security had been bolstered. He said that, for some time, state officials had been preparing an action plan to put in place when the time came.

Officials at sensitive facilities have been told to be in heightened state of preparedness, he said. Emergency management coordinators in the state's 21 counties also have been advised.

Dunbar said state police, which have kept the emergency management center in Ewing Township operational since Sept. 11, are working with the National Guard, the Department of Corrections, the state Division of Criminal Justice and local law enforcement.

The corrections department has equipment and personnel that can be used to supplement security, and criminal justice officials have been working with federal authorities. "We've tried to plug other agencies for additional resources," Dunbar said from the emergency management center.

New Jersey officials also have been in contact with counterparts in New York City, offering to help with any concerns they may have.

On Friday, the National Guard began patrolling airports nationwide. Military bases and nuclear power plants in the state have stepped up security. New Jersey has four reactors: Salem I and II and Hope Creek in Lower Alloways Creek Township, and Oyster Creek in Lacey Township.

Dunbar said there is no imminent threat to the state, and Attorney General John Farmer Jr., echoing that sentiment, said New Jersey residents should remain calm.

"We need for people to be cognizant ... but it would be giving Osama bin Laden what he wants if they act afraid," Farmer said.

(Copyright 2001 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

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Author: 6 - ABC, Action News