Tunisia police steps up checks for veiled terror suspects

Tunisian authorities said today they will tighten checks on people wearing the Muslim full-face veil, as part of efforts to combat Islamist violence, claiming the cover was being used by fugitives.

"The interior ministry announces that it will strengthen checks on everyone wearing the niqab," or the veil, the ministry said on its official Facebook page.

"The measure is being taken because of the threat the country faces and because of terrorist suspects using the niqab .. To disguise themselves and escape justice," it added.

The ministry called on Tunisians to be "understanding" and help the security forces in their work.