Prince Harry's security raised following al-Qaeda threat

LONDON: Prince Harry's security has been enhanced to the same level as that of the British Queen following a threat to his life by Osama bin Laden's al-Qaeda terror network.

The move came after British intelligence services tipped off the Scotland Yard's Royal and Diplomatic Protection Department about a possible attempt on the 23-year-old's life, a report said.

"In the last two weeks, there has been specific intelligence of a threat to Prince Harry.

"Of course, given the source and the Prince's status as a serving Army officer who has seen active service in Afghanistan, it is being treated seriously. Every precaution is being taken," a source was quoted as saying.

In fact, the threat is considered so serious that his four-man personal protection team has now started carrying out advance checks of the Prince's public and private destinations apart from shadowing his every move.

The personal armed guards have also started working closely with Army intelligence and Harry's regiment, the Blues and Royals, where he is a Lieutenant.

Though Harry has not been advised against curtailing his private life unless absolutely necessary, he and his elder brother Prince William have been requested to "restrict" their visits to nightclubs.
Earlier this year, Prince Harry had to cut short his stint in the Army in war-ravaged Afghanistan after al-Qaeda terrorists vowed to take revenge for "Royal aggression against Muslims".