M ilitary and police patrols in Phnom Penh and other main towns are being beefed

up this month, following speculation that the Khmer Rouge may launch terrorist

attacks.

Officials are concerned that the Khmer New Year, from April 13 -

15 - along with the 20th anniversary of the Khmer Rouge's rise to power on April

17, 1975 - may be considered an ideal time for rebel attacks.

The Post,

in its last issue, reported that government intelligence sources said theyhad

firm evidence that KR explosives and special units had been infiltrated into

Phnom Penh in recent weeks.

Interior Minister You Hockry this week

confirmed that security was being boosted around the country, but said he could

not provide details.

He dismissed the prospect of KR attacks in Phnom

Penh, saying the rebels were a long way from the Capital.

A Ministry of

Defense senior official said it was customary for increased security,

particularly against bombs or other sabotage, over all main Khmer

holidays.

A United States Embassy spokesman said the possibility of KR

attacks had been discussed with the authorities, but the embassy knew of no firm

evidence that any such rebel action was planned.