Act Of Terror Says U.S. Envoy In Brunei
By Ignatius Stephen

Bandar Seri Begawan - The planting of a white powder labeled "Anthrax" in the American Embassy premises on Sunday even though the it proved harmless was designed to frighten people and it was therefore considered a terrorist act, U.S. Ambassador Gene B. Christy told reporters.

Even if it was done as a joke it was not at all a laughing matter.

Mr Christy said that the substance was in an envelope enclosed in another envelope and its sender had, "made it clear that he wanted us to believe the white powder contained anthrax." Mr Christy declined to give details.

It is understood that the substance was labeled "Anthrax" in order to put fear into the minds of any recipient.

Chief de Mission Mr Robert Tons had collected a bundle of letters on Sunday afternoon while catching up on work and the particular envelope was among them.

As soon as he discovered the substance he alerted the police other embassy officials.

The Fire Brigade's "Hasmat" team (hazardous material) Squad gave Mr Tons a through hosing down soon after as a safety precaution while they and the police set about examining and safeguarding the premises and its occupants at Teck Guan Plaza at the corner of Jalan Sultan and Jalan McArthur in the Brunei capital.

Shops were asked to close and occupants spilled out into the street.

The US Embassy is situated on the third floor of the commercial complex and the tenants were allowed back after a few hours.

Mr Christy said police conducted tests on the powder and informed the embassy yesterday that it was non-threatening.

But he said that it could be considered a "terrorist act" as it was clearly designed to put fear into the people.

He however praised the police, the fire brigade for their prompt and efficient work. The embassy was thankful for their speedy assistance, he said.

The US embassy has also offered assistance and Mr Christy hoped that the police will have success in their investigations.

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