Australian Federal Police tightens security at Sydney Airport

TIN news:    Close to 100 Australian Federal Police (AFP) officers will now patrol Sydney Airport permanently, as part of the country's increased measures to prevent terrorist attacks at one of Australia's busiest airports.
 
Justice minister Michael Keenan had made an announcement earlier this month that an additional 22 officers would be added to the number of patrolling policemen. This brings the number of armed federal police to 118 and includes air security officers who have to travel regularly on planes.
"Sophisticated intelligence arrangements support the highly visible AFP operations and capability to detect, deter and mitigate threats to our aviation environment."
 
The Daily Telegraph quoted Keenan as saying that federal officers were using the most sophisticated technology to secure the airport.
 
"Sophisticated intelligence arrangements support the highly visible AFP operations and capability to detect, deter and mitigate threats to our aviation environment," Keenan said.
 
"Ensuring the safety and security of Australians is paramount and the AFP is at the front line of national security arrangements at our international airports."
 
In addition to deploying more police, the number of dog squads at the domestic and international terminals has also been increased.
 
Keenan also added that intelligence is being examined every day by Joint Airport Intelligence Groups to block potential breaches of security.
 
Earlier this year, the government announced that authorities were using recognition and biometric screening at the airport departure gates. It said that it has information of individual passengers, which is analysed before high-risk passengers reach customs.