Suspicious package reports leap in NYC

NEW YORK, July 14 (UPI) -- Reports of suspicious packages in New York City have skyrocketed 300 per cent since the London terrorist bombings, it was reported Thursday.

Despite the inconvenience, cost and strain on the city's resources, officials have told Newsday they like it that way.

"It shows that the people are listening to our requests to be vigilant and report packages and activities," police spokesman Paul Browne said. "That's exactly what we want the people to do."

Reports of suspicious packages have risen from 82 in the same five-day period last year to 303 since the attacks one week ago.

Of those reports, none have been actual bombs or other explosive devices. Mostly they range from a piece of trash to an abandoned purse or briefcase.

"We've always said to our passengers, since 9/11, if you see something, say something," said Paul Fleuranges, a spokesman for NYC Transit.