Djibouti's security forces have significantly increased security measures around the country in the wake of the September 11 terrorist in the US. The number of police officers around the US embassy has been doubled, while oil company installations and banks are now under tight surveillance, Agence France-Presse (AFP) reported on Wednesday.

More barbed wire has been set up around the runways at Djibouti airport, which serves as a civilian airport, but also houses a significant French military presence.

It has been suggested in recent days that Djibouti, by virtue of its location on the Red Sea, close to the Gulf, may be called on for logistical support by the Americans if they decide to pursue retaliatory attacks in the region. Djibouti was used by the Americans during the Gulf War and also during their peacekeeping operation in Somalia.

Djibouti is surrounded by countries that have been placed on a US list of having terrorist connections, including Somalia, Ethiopia and Eritrea. Djibouti is a magnet for economic migrants, as well those fleeing their own country for political or criminal reasons, Djibouti's chief of cabinet, Ismail Tani, recently told IRIN. He said as well as overburdening the city's infrastructure, it was causing security problems.

Nairobi, 28 September 2001