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NYPD deploys security forces after Paris attacks

By Sadef Ali Kully

Following the brutal terrorist attacks Friday night in Paris that led to the deaths of more than 125 people, NYPD and military counterterrorism forces were deployed hours later across the city to both airports in the borough, crowded areas and locations connected to the French government.

Airport sources confirmed Friday night the military forces had arrived at John F. Kennedy by 9 p.m. and Customs Border Protection agents had put on their bullet-proof vests as a cautionary measure.

Port Authority police tanks were located outside each terminal for security while military forces patrolled the inside of the terminals at JFK and LGA airports.

The NYPD said it was in contact with French police counterparts as well as the FBI soon after the attacks took place in Paris.

ISIS, the terrorist group in Iraq and nearby countries, took responsibility Saturday morning for the the six suicide bombings that took place in and around restaurants, concert halls and a soccer stadium l in Paris. Two terrorists had taken hostages at the stadium and shot into the crowd before French security forces raided the stadium, the French authorities said.

“NYPD Intelligence Bureau Detectives in France are conducting liaison activities to assist the Paris police in any way possible, while keeping the NYPD updated on the on-going situation,” the NYPD said Friday night in an statement. “There is no known indication that the attack has any nexus to New York City. We will continue to follow events closely and adjust our deployments accordingly.”

As a cautionary measure, the NYPD Counterterrorism Bureau deployed the NYPD Critical Response Command, Strategic Response Group and Hercules Teams to crowded areas, tourist areas and French Consulate and the United Nations in Manhattan had additional protection.

President Barack Obama said in a statement, “Once again, we’ve seen an outrageous attempt to terrorize innocent civilians. This is an attack not just on Paris, it’s an attack not just on the people of France, but this is an attack on all of humanity and the universal values that we share.”

“We stand prepared and ready to provide whatever assistance that the government and the people of France need to respond,” Obama said.

French President Francois Hollande said the attacks were an act of war against France.

Reach Reporter Sadef Ali Kully by e-mail at skully@cnglocal.com or by phone at (718) 260–4546.