Residents urged to remain vigilant over 9/11 anniversary weekend

As Southern Nevadans prepare to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks this weekend, police are asking them to be on the lookout for anything unusual.

"Make sure if you see something that looks suspicious, might be suspicious, do not hesitate to say something," Las Vegas police Deputy Chief Greg McCurdy said during a Friday news conference on Las Vegas Boulevard at Fourth Street.

While officials have no information suggesting the valley is an intended target for terrorism this weekend, it's important to remain vigilant, McCurdy said.

"We do not take for granted anything," he said. "We are an attractive community for those who don't necessarily like the Western style of life. It makes good sense to prepare."

National security officials have said al-Qaida may be planning attacks inside the United States to coincide with 9/11, specifically targeting New York City or Washington, D.C. But if attacks there aren't possible during that time frame, there is a possibility other cities could be targeted, police said.

"Pay attention as you're doing your daily jobs," McCurdy said.

To report suspicious activity, call the Southern Nevada Counter Terrorism Center at 828-8386 or visit snctc.org. The center is staffed 24 hours a day.

Law enforcement officials also have increased their presence at McCarran International Airport and throughout the city, McCurdy said.

"We are going to work with you to keep our community safe."

Contact reporter Lynnette Curtis at lcurtis@reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0285.