Washington, Nov 23: The US Federal Bureau of Investigation is routinely monitoring civic groups it believes might commit acts of violence or terrorism in the hope of furthering political goals, a bureau official said. The admission follows last week's clashes between Miami police and anti-globalization protesters determined to thwart efforts to create a free trade zone in the western hemisphere that they believe will benefit only multinational corporations and harm the environment.
About 220 activists were arrested in Miami, which hosted talks between trade ministers determined to create a free trade area of the Americas, according to local police.
"Our interest is in individuals, or groups, or terrorist groups that would either be committing acts of violence or criminal activity in support of their particular cause," FBI spokesman Bill Carter told.
"Our interest is in developing intelligence about criminal or violent activity that could have an effect on individuals who might be protesting legally."
He said every time there is a large gathering of people -- be it a trade conference or a sports event -- the FBI examines it from the point of view of its vulnerability to violence or terrorist attack and sets up a command center to coordinate activities with local law enforcement agencies.
But Carter said the Bureau is not interested in individuals who are exercising their constitutional right to protest. Bureau Report