UN warned on Geneva attack threat

Cars entering the compound are being searched thoroughly

The UN has boosted security at its European headquarters in Geneva after Swiss authorities gave warning of a possible threat against it.

"No information has been provided about the possible authors or the means to be used," a UN statement said.

Security had been stepped up but work was continuing as usual, UN spokeswoman Elena Ponomareva said.

Some 1,600 people work in the offices, which are set in a large park ringed by a security fence.

The statement said no specific target had been mentioned.

An information note to staff from the UN's security service, obtained by the news agency AFP, said the feared attack was thought to be planned to take place between 5 and 10 October.

Security guards carried out thorough searches on cars entering the Geneva compound on Thursday.

A year ago, security was stepped up after similar warning of a "credible threat" to international organisations based in Geneva, based on US intelligence.

The UN has been increasing protection for employees around the world since a truck bomb attack on its headquarters in Baghdad in 2003 killed 22 people.