No arms for Benny Hinn's guards

Fiji Times/January 20, 2006

Bodyguards of American evangelist Benny Hinn will not carry arms in Fiji, Police Commissioner Andrew Hughes says.

"Okay, if his escort is armed, on arrival at the airport, Customs will seize the firearms and they will be confiscated until they depart Fiji," he said.

Mr Hughes said on arrival, the escorts would be briefed by police about the rules.

He said he was checking on whether Hinn's escorts would be armed.

"Under no circumstances will I approve them to bring arms into Fiji, nor will I approve them carrying arms. Why would they need guns?"

Hinn was expected in Fiji early last night and will preach at the Post Fiji Stadium for the next three days.

Organising committee chairman Reverend Suliasi Kurulo said security was not an issue.

"The issue is that he's coming to bless the people. Security is not an issue."

He said preparations were well under way and they were ready to host a big crowd this evening.

"Preparation is according to schedule. We have provided a large sound system and screens have been put up in Bidesi Park and in the car park for those who are not able to get to the ground." He said some members of Hinn's entourage had arrived.

The music director for Hinn's miracle crusade has been admitted to the Suva Private Hospital with a mild stroke. Fijilive reported Pastor Tim Uluirewa had now been replaced by World Harvest Centre choirmaster Ciri Delana. Hinn's local public relations coordinator Manasa Kolivuso said although they were saddened by Pastor Tim's sickness, Delana's availability has been an answer to their prayers.