Security around UN stepped up after pre-dawn blast hits British consulate

The United Nations stepped up security measures in and around its New York Headquarters today as a precautionary measure following a predawn explosion at the British consulate in midtown Manhattan that shattered some windows but caused no injuries.

The New York City Police Department informed the United Nations that a UN staffer was taken into custody for questioning but has since been released.

The UN has been in close contact with city authorities to ascertain additional details, spokesman Stephane Dujarric said. Although there was no known specific concern, as a precautionary measure, security was increased around the UN's eastside office and annexes.

"All canine teams have been called out to duty and will be deployed to patrol United Nations buildings until further notice," he said. "Also, there is an increased security presence at entry points to the United Nations Headquarters and annex buildings."