US security officials transported External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar 416 miles in September due to a government shutdown affecting commercial flights. The journey was necessary for Jaishankar to attend a meeting with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in New York. The US Diplomatic Security Service report, released on January 8, detailed the arrangements made during the shutdown.
A team of 27 agents from the Diplomatic Security Service’s Dignitary Protection Division and local field offices facilitated the journey. The officials met Jaishankar at the US-Canada border and drove for seven hours to Manhattan, navigating through upstate New York. The security detail collaborated with Indian UN mission officials, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, and US border authorities for a smooth transition at the border crossing.
The motorcade’s route was carefully planned to ensure safety in winter conditions, with agents rotating driving duties. Despite challenges like freezing temperatures and limited visibility, the journey continued uninterrupted. During the trip, an explosive detection dog alerted to the minister’s vehicle, leading to a brief inspection and clearance before resuming the journey.
Upon reaching New York City, a security agent assisted a woman injured in a hit-and-run incident. While the agent provided aid, others coordinated with local authorities to manage the situation and ensure the minister’s security was maintained. The incident did not disrupt the minister’s schedule, and the UN meeting proceeded as planned, thanks to the successful operation by the Diplomatic Security Service.
