RIM to slash around 2,000 jobs: Reports

New Delhi: BlackBerry-maker Research In Motion (RIM) is likely to slash around 2,000 jobs worldwide as part of a massive restructuring plan that will

begin in the next couple of weeks, according to a report.

"RIM is preparing for a major global restructuring beginning in the next couple of weeks that will see it eliminate at least 2,000 jobs across its worldwide operations," the Globe and Mail reported citing a person close to the company.

RIM is the latest entity to announce layoffs after tech giant HP, which plans to axe 27,000 staff.

The report added that the layoffs may cut even deeper than that.

Amid tough market conditions and stiff competition, RIM is the latest entity to announce layoffs after tech giant HP, which plans to axe 27,000 staff.

RIM, which has about 16,500 employees worldwide at present, had announced in July last year to reduce its workforce by 2,000.

The report said the layoffs and executive departures would sweep across departments, ranging from senior positions in RIM's legal division to human resources, finance, sales and marketing.

The Canadian newspaper said next round is layoffs is said to be planned for around June 1 a day before RIM's first quarter ends on June 2 but some expect the announcement even earlier.

Well known for its Blackberry mobile e-mail devices, Canada-based RIM is grappling with stiff competition from players such as Apple as well as security issues in many countries, including India.

According to the publication, a RIM spokesperson declined to comment on "rumours and speculation."