US steps up checks on visitors; Singapore warns of "urgent" terror threat

0 Comments | AFP, January, 2004

WASHINGTON (AFP) — The United States began photographing and fingerprinting foreign visitors as Singapore -- home to one of Asia's largest airports -- endorsed demands for armed guards on planes to counter the "urgent" terrorist threat.

The intensified checks by Washington, which are part of a multi-million dollar effort to crack down on terrorists, came amid a global air security alert that has forced the cancellation of several flights over the past week.

Photos and fingerprints are required only of visitors who must obtain visas to enter the United States -- an expected 23 million arrivals in 2004.

Citizens from 28 countries, mostly in Europe, are exempt, according to the Department of Homeland Security, which runs the United States Visitor and Immigrant...