Belfast perfect target for al-Qaida, warn experts

BELFAST port is a perfect target for global terrorists plotting new strikes on the west, security experts warned yesterday.

With al-Qaida believed to be planning to use ships in attacks, experts claim it could attempt to launch a chemical or biological offensive on the city.

Christopher Ledger, of London-based Maritime and Underwater Security Consultants Ltd, urged the authorities to tighten sea controls. “Belfast in many ways would be ideal as the port is right in the centre of town,” he said.