Washington, Nov 26: The US Federal Bureau of Investigation has reaffirmed its commitment to "the constitutional rights of all Americans" following charges it was spying on political activists, and made public a classified document to prove its point. But the October 15 intelligence bulletin containing a warning about upcoming anti-war demonstrations revealed the FBI knew a whole lot about tactics employed by anti-globalisation and peace activists for an agency ostensibly disinterested in "political dissent."
The document alerted local law enforcement agencies that mass marches and rallies against the occupation in Iraq had been scheduled to take place in Washington and San Francisco on October 25.
"While the FBI possesses no information indicating that violent or terrorist activities are being planned as part of these protests, the possibility exists that elements of the activist community may attempt to engage in violent, destructive, or disruptive acts," the Bureau warned.
It went on to say that modern-day protesters resorted to "several effective and innovative strategies" before, during and after demonstrations.
Protesters often use the internet to recruit, raise funds, and coordinate their activities prior to demonstrations, the FBI said.
Bureau Report