Qahwaji: Warns of Risks of Security Manipulation …Light Weapons in Nearly Every House

by Naharnet Newsdesk 12 October 2010, 13:42

Lebanese Army Commander Gen. Jean Qahwaji warned of the risks of security manipulation and said he was careful when going into issues like the International Tribunal and the indictment and from the problems that could come with them, Al-Akhbar newspaper said Tuesday.

It said Qahwaji has sent messages to the various Lebanese political leaders warning them of the "risks of security manipulation."

Qahwaji would tell visitors, according to Al-Akhbar, that he fears a possible indictment against Hizbullah members in the assassination of former PM Rafik Hariri would spark trouble "because such an accusation could find someone to give it a sectarian dimension to provoke internal strife."

The army commander stressed that the military would "prevent discord by force."

Qahwaji said political security and the tense political climate "make security more sensitive, and put obstacles in the military path in ensuring citizens' security.

"The army, however, is ready to confront any security mishap," he said, stressing that he is not afraid but rather concerned.

Qahawaji goes on to say that he is confident about the military's capabilities.

"We have 4,000 troops in Beirut in addition to reserve forces to intervene when needed in case of any riots or chaos," he said. "In Tripoli, there is a full army regiment and a commando unit in Amshit ready to intervene in the event of any security unrest."

Qahwaji confirmed there were light arms in nearly every house. "But we cannot say that the situation is wobbly."

"So far we have not monitored heavy weapons with anybody such as tanks, mortars and artillery," he added.

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