by naharnet

Interior Minister Nouhad
al-Mashnouq reassured Monday that security is “under control” in
Lebanon, following the latest terrorist attacks in Istanbul, Berlin and
some countries in the region. “The good security situation on New Year’s Eve proves
that security is under control in Lebanon and that the security agencies
are performing their duties to the fullest,” Mashnouq said after taking
part in a meeting at Beirut’s airport aimed at preparing for the
arrival of the Lebanese victims of Istanbul’s nightclub attack.

“Officials, employees and volunteers performed their duties,” he added. Media reports said Lebanese security agencies
implemented a strict security plan on New Year’s Eve after international
intelligence agencies obtained information that terrorist groups were
plotting to target public places and NYE celebrations across the world.

Around 10,000 members of the security forces deployed
across the country as 3,000 plainclothes security personnel were
positioned around nightlife spots and restaurants, the reports said. Thirty-nine people, the majority of them foreigners,
were killed when a gunman went on a rampage at Istanbul’s Reina club
where revelers were celebrating New Year’s Eve. Three Lebanese were
killed and six others were wounded in the attack.