Pakistan on alert for bin Laden anniversary

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan was in a state of high alert Wednesday over fears terrorists could mark the first anniversary of Osama bin Laden's killing by American Navy SEALs with revenge attacks.

Pakistani officials said they fear attacks could mar the anniversary, saying that security agencies had been ordered to be "extra vigilant" on Wednesday.

"These agencies are in a state of high alert and have been directed to be very careful since this is going to be an important day," one security official told on condition of anonymity.

Western embassies in Islamabad have issued warnings, advising citizens to avoid public places for fear of attack. The US embassy in particular has restricted staff from going to restaurants and markets until May 5. (AFP)