Biden inauguration: US Postal Service removes mailboxes from major cities in 17 states as security measures
The US Postal Service (USPS) is taking all necessary steps to prevent any violence or disturbance during the January 20 inauguration of Joe Biden. The agency has removed some mailboxes from major cities in at least 17 states across the US as a security measure. Postal Service spokesman David Partenheimer told CNN, “It's part of our normal procedures to keep our employees and customers safe during times of protest or when large crowds are gathered near postal facilities, on postal routes, or by mailboxes.”
The USPS also released a press release that stated, “Postal customers in Washington, DC, will see some changes as the U.S. Postal Service complies with local authorities’ security preparations scheduled for the Presidential Inauguration on Jan 20, 2021. Government officials and law enforcement will cordon off sections of the downtown area during the inauguration.”
The step has been taken after earlier in January thousands of alleged Trump supporters marched down the Capitol building that also took the lives of five people, including a police officer. In addition to the USPS, the United States Capitol Police has also taken a number of precautionary steps ahead of the inauguration. A press release from the department said, “In preparation for the 59th Presidential Inaugural Ceremonies, the United States Capitol Police (USCP) has implemented a number of enhanced security measures across the US Capitol Complex, including global fencing and street closures until further notice. Be advised that the US Capitol Complex is closed to the public, and the Capitol Grounds will not be accessible to the public on January 20, 2021. Anyone attempting to unlawfully gain access to the Capitol Grounds by climbing a fence or any other unlawful means will be subject to an appropriate use of force and arrest.”
It added, “As part of the USCP’s enhanced security posture, the Department is coordinating the assistance of National Guard troops within the Capitol Complex as well as protective and response capabilities from law enforcement partners throughout the National Capital Region.” Acting Chief Yogananda Pittman said, “The Department appreciates the support and coordination of the US National Guard as well as all of its law enforcement partners throughout the National Capital Region, in securing the 59th Inaugural Ceremonies.”
Reports stated that the streets of Washington DC have been getting ready with what's been called a "military zone" for the big day. Some reports also claimed that two zones — green and red — have been "established" and that some bridges connecting the city to others will be shut down. Newsmax on January 16 tweeted, “Washington DC remains locked down with barricades and thousands of National Guard troops, @LyndsayMKeith reports. http://nws.mx/tv." Another tweet from RSBN said, “Here’s a look at DC right now. Massive street closures, barricades up at every block, and what appears to be some type of security checkpoint. These are set up around the area. #DC #Trump #BREAKING #Security @brianglenntv." A report also said that National Guard Troops have been given the authority to use "lethal force".
