Gaithersburg Police "On Alert" For 9/11 Attack

Department of Homeland Security officials have warned of an unconfirmed but credible terrorist threat targeting the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, and the Gaithersburg Police Department isn't taking the news lightly.

Officer Dan Lane, the department spokesman, said in a statement that the city is on a "heightened state of alert."

Officers will be on the lookout for "suspicious persons, packages and vehicles, and increased patrols have been authorized, especially around events and activities where large crowds are anticipated."

But Gaithersburg Police are not acting alone. They are part of a region-wide effort to thwart any potential threats before they materialize.

"In consultation with allied agencies including the Montgomery County Police Department Vice and Intelligence Unit, the Maryland Coordination and Analysis Center (MCAC) and our Federal partners, the City of Gaithersburg has determined that at this time there are no specific threats to any events, persons or specific locations within the corporate limits of Gaithersburg," Lane said.

A message board has been parked on Rt. 355 that blinks a reminder for residents to call 911 or 1-800-492-TIPS (8477) if they see or suspect any suspicious activity.