Mashnouq Meets Rahi, Says Security Plan to Extend to Northern Bekaa, Beirut

Interior Minister Nouhad al-Mashnouq revealed on Saturday that the security plan adopted to restore stability in the northern city of Tripoli will be also implemented in northern Bekaa, and later in Beirut.

He also assured that there are no unofficial checkpoints or armed forces anymore on the roads of Baalbek and Hermel in the Bekaa.

"We stress on going forward with this security plan in the best way possible, with the support of President Michel Suleiman, the bravery of the army chief, and the courage of Internal Security Forces,” al-Mashnouq said after meeting with Maronite Patriarch Beshara al-Rahi at Bkirki.

He added: “We all bear the responsibility of this plan's failure or success, but it has proved to be very successful until now.”

He then revealed that the plan will be next implemented in the northern Bekaa, and later in Beirut.

"We will close the door on all attacks on the Lebanese, their security and their livelihoods, especially after the recurrence of kidnapping incidents,” the minister assured.

Al-Mashnouq noted that the Maronite Patriarch is keen on the security and safety of the Lebanese and on ending this (abduction) phenomenon “that harmed Lebanon and its people, as the country has come to be perceived as a place where organized crimes frequently take place.”

Security forces kicked off on Tuesday the security plan in Tripoli, seizing arms depots and detaining fugitives accused of illegal acts and inciting violence in the area.

S.D.B.