Bombing prompts security rethinks

BRUSSELS: Countries from the US to Japan and Singapore are considering tightening security ahead of major theatre and sports events following a suicide bomb attack in Britain that killed at least 22 people.

The US Department of Homeland Security said it was closely monitoring the situation in Manchester and that the American public may experience increased security at public events.

Japan said it had started gathering information.

“We have strengthened our position by establishing an information-gathering unit dedicated to international terrorism,” chief cabinet secretary Yoshihide Suga said.

In Singapore, the organiser of Britney Spears’ concerts next month said they were considering new measures.

“We are definitely looking at tightening security,” Yogesh Mehta, project manager at IME Entertainment Group, said.

Singapore, which hosts a security summit from June 2 to 4 bringing together Asia-Pacific defence and military chiefs, made amendments to the Public Order Act last month.

It requires event organisers to notify the police a month beforehand if they expect more than 5,000 people to attend.

And police may refuse to allow a public gathering if it has a direct political end or involves foreigners.

Hong Kong’s AsiaWorld Expo, where Ariana Grande is due to hold a concert in September, said it would enhance security measures for all concerts and events.

Besides baggage inspection, there will be metal detectors, it said, adding it was also planning to introduce search dogs for any suspicious items.

Australia’s Melbourne Cricket Ground said it is reviewing procedures. – Reuters