Police defuses IED near U.S. embassy in Philippines

Manila, [Philippines], Nov. 28 : Police on Monday defused an improvised explosive device found near the U.S. embassy in Manila, Philippines. Philippines National Police Chief Ronald "Bato" de la Rosa said at a press conference that two eyewitnesses have claimed that a person riding in a taxi placed the device less than 150 meters (500 feet) from the embassy.

"The (device) found near the US embassy today has the same design as the one used in the Davao market blast," CNN quoted De la Rosa, as saying while referring to the September explosion which had killed 14 people.

U.S. Embassy Press Attache and First Secretary Molly Koscina said that a "municipal employee" discovered the device and reported to the US Embassy guards about it, who immediately contacted the police.

"We are thankful that the municipal employee and the (police) took quick and appropriate action to ensure the safety of all," said Koscina.

Source: ANI