France has tightened up security after explosives were found in a Paris store yesterday. The explosives were discovered in the busy Printemps department store after a the French News Agency (AFP) received a letter from a group claiming to be the Afghan Revolutionary Front. The group who were previously unknown to security services were demanding the withdrawal of French troops from Afghanistan by February 2009.

The 'bomb' which was discovered by sniffer dogs consisted of a bundle of dynamite sticks but with out a detonator attached so there was little risk of an explosion. The dynamite was found in a toilet in the menswear department and was not consistent with devices normally used by Islamic extremists.

Following the discovery of the device police in Paris have arrested seven suspected Islamic terrorists but have stated that the arrests were not in connection with the discovery of the explosives.

Security has been stepped up in Paris and other major cities across France and President Sarkozy has stated that "Vigilance against terrorism is the only possible option". Earlier this year France announced it would increase its number of troops in Afghanistan by another 700.

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