Berri Lashes Out at Security Forces for Failing to Control Situation

Speaker Nabih Berri considered on Wednesday that the security situation in the country is “intolerable,” lashing out at the security forces for failing to protect the Lebanese.

“If the security and military forces are incapable of safeguarding the Lebanese then why are we paying them their salaries? Every Lebanese then would protect himself,” Berri said in comments published in As Safir newspaper.

He pointed out that the security forces should strike with an “iron fist,”end the security chaos and detain offenders across the country, whether in Beirut's southern suburbs, the Bekaa, the northern city of Tripoli or the coastal southern city of Sidon.

The speaker noted that security forces don't reveal all the security incidents that occur, warning that if the chaotic situation remains as it is, it will have dangerous repercussions.

“Several investors informed me that they intend to leave the country if the situation remains the same,” Berri added.

He called on officials to allow the security agencies to carry out their duties “before it's too late,” and lifting the political cover off those who are carrying arms.

The AMAL leader warned of the increasing sectarian incitement and attacks on the army and the judiciary, saying: “The state's prestige has hit the bottom, we should restore it.”

According to An Nahar newspaper, the speaker held telephone conversations on Tuesday with President Michel Suleiman and Prime Minister Najib Miqati.

Berri tackled with the two officials the security situation in the country, stressing the importance of holding a meeting for the Higher Defense Council to end the “irregular situation.”

Since the eruption of Syria's clashes in 2011, Lebanon has been witnessing several security incidents in Tripoli, along the Lebanese-Syrian border and in several other regions.

The rate of kidnappings in return for ransom has also increased, where abductees have been released without any trace of the offenders after the payment.