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FBI Warns of Possible Threat to Holiday Gathering Sites

by VOA News

   The U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation is warning local law
   enforcement agencies across the United States that Islamic State
   militants are calling for attacks on churches and other sites where
   holiday crowds might gather.

   The announcement came Friday after the militants posted a list of U.S.
   churches as possible targets on its social media sites.

   "As part of the continuous dialogue with our law enforcement partners,"
   FBI spokesman Andrew Ames said, "the FBI routinely shares information
   about potential threats to better enable law enforcement to protect the
   communities they serve."

   Ames said citizens are advised to maintain awareness of their
   surroundings and report suspicious activity.

   He added that the FBI "is tracking this matter while we investigate its
   credibility."

   On Monday, Islamic State claimed responsibility for a terror attack on
   a Berlin Christmas market in which 12 people died and 56 were injured.