Plane plot: UK on maximum alert
2006-08-10 08:12
London - Britain went on its highest alert for terrorist attacks early on Thursday after the discovery of a plot to blow up several planes flying between Britain and the United States.
The level of alert was raised to "critical" from "severe" as airport security was tightened.
British police earlier announced they had thwarted a major terrorist plot to allegedly blow up aircraft.
The plan was uncovered in a joint operation by Scotland Yard's anti-terrorist branch and security service, the Metropolitan Police said.
British television said about 20 arrests had been made.
Security was immediately ordered tightened at British airports, where hand baggage has been reduced to a strict minimum.
- AFP