Secondary Devices A Terrorist Favorite Tactic July 29, 2009

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Secondary Devices A Terrorist Favorite Tactic

The suicide attackers who struck the Indonesian capital last week planted a third bomb on an upper floor timed to explode prior to the 7:43 AM suicide attack inside the Marriott’s ground floor “Syailendra” restaurant, where chief executive officers had gathered to have breakfast. The discovery has prompted speculation the terrorists intended to kill more victims by exploding the first bomb on the 18th floor of the hotel, which would have caused guests to run downstairs into the ground floor public areas where a suicide bomber could have been waiting. Points to consider: Police are investigating a recent Internet posting allegedly posted on behalf of Noordin Mohammed Top, a top Southeast Asian terror suspect claiming responsibility for these hotel bombings. The message, says the Jakarta hotel blasts were carried out by Tandzim al-Qaida Indonesia, a splinter faction of the al-Qaida-linked regional militant group Jemaah Islamiyah (JI), saying the attacks, targeted the American business community. Be aware this tactic, has been used many times by terrorists, including by Jemaah Islamiyah, in the 2002 Bali bombing that killed 88 Australians, and s intended to maximize casualties. The revelation of the timing of the third bomb would tend to indicate that the attacks were intended to kill many more than the seven who died in the twin bombings at the two American-owned luxury hotels. Be aware that when called to an incident, first responders and emergency personnel should always be alert for the potential of an explosive. If the risk of explosion is a concern, implement appropriate evacuation protocols and scene security measures. At an explosion scene where a bombing is a possible cause, consider the possibility of a secondary device(s). Additionally, remember that upon the discovery of explosives devices at any operation the appropriate agencies shall be notified promptly, the explosive device shall not be disturbed", and as with any other explosive device it shall not be disturbed, shall be assumed to be dangerous and possibly "booby trapped and the safety of civilians and operating personnel is paramount.

Noordin Mohammed Top

Malaysian-born Islamist Noordin Mohammed Top is the man allegedly behind the latest suicide bombings in Indonesia. He is one of Asia's most-wanted and elusive militant leaders, following an ideology of spectacular violence in spite of government strides in curtailing Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) with a combination of sweeping arrests. While much of JI has turned away from attacks on Western and government targets, Noordin remains as a potent leader of a minority faction untroubled by the prospect of mass civilian casualties.

July 29, 2009


Home Grown Terrorists Next Door? The Justice Department has recently announced that seven North Carolina men believed to be members of Hezb-e-Islami, or Party of Islam, have been charged with supporting terrorism and conspiracy to commit murder abroad. The accusations continue, that the men had traveled to Pakistan and Afghanistan, where they trained in terrorist training camps to prepare for "violent jihad." Furthermore the men are accused of engaging in weapons training and military tactics on private land in north-central North Carolina. An eighth alleged member of the North Carolina group is reportedly still at large, and believed to be in Pakistan. Points to consider: The defendants are accused of having a substantial cache of weapons, practicing military tactics and use of weapons on private property in Caswell County, NC, in June and July 2009. This coupled with recent revelation of a 26 year old Long Island, NY man, nicknamed "Ibrahim" or "Bashir al-Ameriki," who had undergone terrorist training: learning the use of firearms including the AK-47 rifle; theory of explosives and the assembly of bombs and suicide vests, besides the use of rocket-type weapons, reinforces the theory that al-Qaeda’s has for some time looked to recruit “western-looking” operatives that would blend in our culture and go unnoticed in our society. Consider that this is not the first time an American had gone to Pakistan for Jihad, others have preceded them such as John Walker Lindh and convicted terrorist Jose Padilla.

Investigation Uncovers Identity Theft Ring According to an affidavit filed in a federal criminal case, Investigators teamed up to track a Pakistani native, and 13 accomplices in Los Angeles who had allegedly paid Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV) workers in several states to provide fraudulent documents. Points to consider: Counter-terrorism officials have said the suspect has not been connected directly to any known terrorist organizations. But she hails from the world's epicenters for Islamic terror, and has said she has helped numerous individuals from her native Pakistan. Be aware that at least six of the Sept. 11th terrorists obtained and used false IDs to carry out their deadly attack. This underscores the risks posed by such security breaches, and there is no way to know how many thousands of people might be out there with these documents. Consider that although this incident appears to be a criminal act, this highlights a vulnerability terror groups could potentially use to their advantage.

Search Uncovers Phony ID and Weapons An Olla, La man has been arrested recently, after U.S. Marshals searched the suspect’s home and according to officers, found evidence that he had passed himself off as a member of the U.S. Marshal and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Points to consider: Although the suspects motives are not known at this time, police found various fraudulent items including; law enforcement identification cards, badges and SWAT uniforms. Additionally they found explosives, including grenades and grenade components, a large cache of assault weapons, handguns, and thousands of rounds of assorted ammunition. Consider that security experts consider this to be a "serious" situation, because people trying to get through security measures without being checked could use uniforms and gain access to secure areas.

School for Suicide Bombers The Pakistani Army believes that between 1,200 to 1,500 impressionable young boys as young as 11, were trained in Swat to become suicide bombers. It is believed they were recruited after the Government signed the February peace deal with the Taleban, handing over control of the valley to the militants. Points to consider: Similar to past reports of al-Qaeda run camps, the training conducted in the remote mountain base in Chuprial, included 16 hours a day of physical exercise and psychological indoctrination. Consider that officials believe that the militants including notorious Pakistani Taliban commander, Baitullah Mehsud have chosen children as potential suicide bombers because they were impressionable, less likely to be detected, and better able to reach their targets.


Taliban Issue Guidelines In an attempt bring all of the Taliban in Afghanistan under his control Mullah Omar has issued a book, laying down a code of conduct for he Taliban. Points to consider: The pocket-sized book, with 13 chapters and 67 articles entitled "The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan Rules for Mujahideen" has been issued to every Taliban fighter. Consider that in the past many different groups in Afghanistan operated under the umbrella of the Taliban. Individual commanders have had autonomy, often deciding what operations to conduct and how to run the territory that they control. Now these new guidelines can be interpreted as an attempt by Mullah Omar to bring all of the Taliban under his control.

Police Arrest Four for Border Patrol Agent Murder Police in Mexico have announced the arrests of four men in connection to the killing of a U.S. Border Patrol agent in Southern California. Additionally, investigators have notified hospitals on both sides of the U.S.-Mexico border f to be on the lookout or suspects who may have been injured in gunfire. Points to consider: This is the first such shooting of a border patrol agent in more than a decade. The suspects detained near Tecate, Mexico, are allegedly part of an immigrant smuggling ring. Consider that officials have voiced concerns recently that the lawlessness, and violence plaguing Mexico could spill into the US with the targeting of U.S. law enforcement officials.

Anthrax Attack Computer Simulation The results of a computer simulation, in which a large attack on a major metropolitan area with airborne anthrax could affect more than a million people, appears in the July/August edition of the journal Medical Decision Making magazine. Points to consider: The new study found that in order for a response to be effective, quick detection and treatment are essential, and any delay beyond three days would overwhelm hospitals with critically ill people. The researchers say that anthrax attack scenarios typically involve the release of one kilogram of weapon zed anthrax from airplane flying over a major city, and thousands, or hundreds of thousands of people could inhale the invisible powder.

Storage Tank Fire Flames shot up over 50 feet in the air at Energy Material & Recovery Incorporated in Portland, Oregon recently. The first-arriving fire company reported heavy fire burning next to four large vertical oil storage tanks containing an estimated 100,000 gallons of used crankcase oil that was being recycled. Points to consider: Fire crews were able to quickly deploy high volume hose lines onto the fire in an attempt to keep the fire away from the large storage tanks, keeping the fuels inside those tanks cool enough so that they would also not ignite. Consider that burning motor oil (UN 1270) may generate dense smoke. Additionally, water may be ineffective but can be used to cool containers exposed to heat or flame to prevent vapor pressure buildup and possible container rupture. Caution should be exercised when using water or foam as frothing may occur, especially if sprayed into containers of hot, burning liquid. For general operating procedures refer to the Emergency Response Guidebook, guide # 128.

Firefighters Narrowly Escape Collapse Odessa, Texas firefighters narrowly escaped serious injury recently, while fighting a fire in the abandoned House of Prayer Baptist Church when the roof collapsed. Points to consider: Consider that older gothic-style churches are characterized with high ceilings, and huge concealed spaces above the main body of the church. Because of the high ceiling a high rate of water flow is required, and once the fire reaches the structure supporting the roof, collapse is possible. For these reasons a thorough size-up should be conducted prior to commencement of operations, and if an advance fire is present, exterior/defensive tactics should be considered.


Train Crash Kills 6 A railway accident on the Indian Ocean island of Madagascar killed six people and left about 30 others injured. The train, called the “Jungle Express” was braking upon entering the Fiarantsoa station when the first car derailed and overturned. Points to consider: The cause of the accident is under investigation. Consider that in the wake of the recent horrific crashes, it is important to understand that although railroading today is the safest of all modes of American transportation and, train accidents are at one of their lowest levels ever, mass transportation accidents do happen and can have a profound effect on first a responders operation. Recognize that these tragic incidents, highlights the potential for mass casualty incident that is present in our aging rail system. Prior to commencing operations, size-up is crucial in evaluating hazards, tactics, and available resources.

Hydrogen Peroxide Leak A tractor-trailer was traveling on U.S. Highway 42 east of Bedford, Kentucky when it hit the embankment and overturned. The trailer ruptured, and leaked out concentrated hydrogen peroxide onto the roadway. Points to consider: Hydrogen peroxide (UN 2015) is a clear, colorless liquid that is considered a strong oxidizer. Contact with combustibles may cause fire. Although it is considered non-combustible, on decomposition it releases oxygen, which may intensify fire. For general operating procedures refer to the Emergency Response Guidebook, guide # 143. Coal Tar Leak Police were called to the scene of a semi truck leaking a corrosive liquid on the Bishop Ford Freeway (I-94) near Dolton Road in Dolton, Illinois recently. The tanker was carrying 45,000 pounds of coal tar, a mild corrosive, which leaked onto the pavement. Points to consider: Coal tar (UN 1136) is a viscous liquid with a tar-like; naphthalene-like odor. It reacts violently with strong oxidizers such as liquid chlorine, sodium or potassium hypochlorite, nitric acid and peroxides. For general operating procedures refer to the Emergency Response Guidebook, guide # 128.

Acid Spill Interstate 70 in Topeka, Kansas was closed recently after a large container of batteries fell off a truck spilling acid onto the roadway. Points to consider: Sulfuric acid is common in auto batteries (UN 1830) is a thick oily odorless liquid, but has a choking odor when hot. Considered highly corrosive, it will react with water to produce toxic and corrosive fumes. Vapors are heavier than air and will collect and stay in low areas. For general operating procedures refer to the Emergency Response Guidebook guide # 137.

Nitric Acid Spill Results in Orange Cloud Nitric acid overflowed from a 220-gallon container at Electro-Coatings Company in Cedar Rapids, Iowa recently. The acid then combined with excess moisture, to create an orange cloud that escaped from the building through a chrome scrubber/chimney atop the plant. Firefighters contained the substance, ventilated the building, and allowed a cleaning contractor to clean the rest of the building Points to consider: Nitric acid (UN 2031) is a colorless, yellow, or red, fuming corrosive liquid with an acrid, suffocating odor. It will react with water or steam to produce heat and toxic, corrosive and flammable vapors. Fuming nitric acid (UN 2032) is concentrated nitric acid that contains dissolved nitrogen dioxide. For general operating procedures refer to the Emergency Response Guidebook, guide # 157.


Propane Tanker Crash Nearby homes were evacuated and an intersection shut down after a vehicular accident involving a 2,500-gallon propane tanker truck in Orlando, Florida recently. Hazmat teams were called to control leaking propane from the tank, while firefighters extricated the trapped driver. Points to consider: Propane (UN 1075) is odorless, tasteless, and colorless in its natural state; an odorant (ethyl mercapitan) is added similar to natural gas, so that leaks may be detected. Propane is easily ignited, heavier than air, therefore, it may collect in low areas or travel along the ground where an ignition source may be present. Be aware that pressure in a container can build up due to heat, and it may rupture (BLEVE) if pressure relief devices should fail to function. For general operating procedures refer to the Emergency Response Guidebook, guide # 115.

Officers Exposed at Traffic Stop Police had made a routine traffic stop in Kenner, La recently when the officer became suspicious the trucker might be hauling narcotics. The trooper’s was given consent to search the truck and during the search was overcome by fumes from a mysterious substance wafting from a tractor-trailer. Points to consider: There was cocaine and also pesticides in the truck, and investigators believed the pesticide is what made the officers sick. Consider that these chemicals are unique among toxic substances. They are not a byproduct of another process, but are instead industrial chemicals produced specifically for their toxicity to a target pest. Pesticides can pose serious health risks to workers, first responders, and the public if there is an accidental spill or release. Pesticides are highly toxic and their containers should be identified by the signal words “DANGER" or "POISON” found on the product label. Additionally, be aware that the active ingredients of most pesticides are not flammable, but the formulation solvents of liquid emulsifiable concentrates or oil solutions (xylene, kerosene, or other organic solvents) are, and present a substantial fire hazard. For general operating procedures, refer to the Emergency Response Guidebook, guide # 151.

Tanker Inferno A semi-truck carrying diesel fuel overturned and tore its tank open, bursting into flames on highway 72 just north of Belfry, MT recently. Upon arrival firefighters saw a wave of flaming fuel moving across the front lawn towards a nearby house. Points to consider: First arriving firefighters used the following tactics, rightfully placing the expected life hazard first: Fire crews focused on the house and the family inside, while a HAZMAT crew cooled off the truck and handled the leaking fuel. Additionally consider that diesel fuel (UN 1993) vapors may be ignited rapidly when exposed to heat, spark, open flame or other source of ignition. When mixed with air and exposed to an ignition source, flammable vapors can burn in the open or explode in confined spaces. Being heavier than air, vapors may travel long distances to an ignition source and flash back. For general operating procedures refer to the Emergency Response Guidebook, guide # 128.

Ammonia Leak Workers were cleaning out an old refrigeration plant in Tulsa, Oklahoma recently, when a forklift struck a line attached to a 3,000-gallon anhydrous ammonia tank causing a leak. Four people, including a firefighter, were exposed to the vapor and received medical treatment. A HAZMAT team in full protective gear was able to stop the leak, as Tulsa firefighters ventilated the building. Points to consider: Anhydrous ammonia (UN 1005) has a strong, pungent odor and may be shipped or stored as a compressed gas or cryogenic liquid. It produces a toxic, visible or invisible gas cloud that is lighter than air but may hug the ground when cool. Anhydrous ammonia will burn under certain conditions, it is classified as a corrosive liquid and poison gas in other parts of the world Responders to incidents involving anhydrous ammonia will require Level A chemical protective clothing and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) to protect them or to perform rescue. For general operating procedures refer to the Emergency Response Guidebook, guide # 125.


Battery Acid Spill A construction truck was hauling a sign on I-15 in Sandy, Utah recently. The sign became dislodged from the truck and rolled, causing two batteries to break open and spill corrosive battery-acid onto the roadway. A HAZMAT crew responded and neutralized the acid. Points to consider: Sulfuric acid (UN 1830) is common in auto batteries is a thick oily odorless liquid, but has a choking odor when hot. Considered highly corrosive, it will react with water to produce toxic and corrosive fumes. Vapors are heavier than air and will collect and stay in low areas. For general operating procedures refer to the Emergency Response Guidebook guide # 137.

Hydrochloric Acid Spill US 460 in Bourbon County, KY was closed recently, after a truck carrying hydrochloric acid was involved in a crash, and spilled its cargo. Hazardous materials teams evaluated the chemical spill associated with the crash evacuated all civilians in a three-mile radius. Points to consider: Hydrochloric acid (UN 1789) is a colorless to light yellow liquid with a harsh pungent irritating odor. Depending upon concentration it may fume upon release. Its vapors are heavier than air and will collect and stay in low areas. It reacts with common metals to produce flammable hydrogen gas. For general operating procedures refer to the Emergency Response Guidebook, guide #157.

Homes Evacuated After Acid Spill Homes near a plant in Washington County, PA were evacuated recently because of an nitric acid spill at the Allegheny Ludlum Specialty Plate Mill plant, resulting in a yellow gas cloud escaping from the building, and moving in a northwest direction. Points to consider: Nitric acid (UN 2031) is a colorless, yellow, or red, fuming corrosive liquid with an acrid, suffocating odor. It will react with water or steam to produce heat and toxic, corrosive and flammable vapors. Fuming nitric acid (UN 2032) is concentrated nitric acid that contains dissolved nitrogen dioxide. For general operating procedures refer to the Emergency Response Guidebook, guide # 157.

Dry Ice Bomb Yucaipa, CA Arson/Bomb investigators and fire personnel responded to a report of a man injured from a bomb that exploded when he went to retrieve mail from his mailbox. The mailbox was completely destroyed, and investigators determined it was a dry ice bomb that caused the damage. Points to consider Be aware that there are many web sites on the Internet giving step-by-step instructions on how to make these devices. Be aware that dry ice bombs are simple homemade bombs that are made by placing dry ice into a plastic container and when the carbon dioxide (CO2) warms, it creates a gas that puts pressure on the bottle causing the explosion.

Bug Bomb Causes Explosion A Cape Coral, Florida woman had just returned from vacation and placed the bug bomb on a shelf under the kitchen sink for about 10 seconds when an explosion hit her, shattering a window, cracking two others, knocking a sliding glass door off its track and unhinging a dishwasher. Points to consider: Although the dishwasher was not running, investigators said it might have been the source of the explosion. Due to health and safety issues associated with these products, the state of New York has recently banned such insect foggers. Consider that special hazards that exist with insecticides which include: the flammable or explosive potential of the chemicals and containers, the toxic properties of the smoke, fumes, vapors, dusts, and liquids, and the long-term affects of spilling or dispersing biologically active chemicals into the environment. Be aware that the active ingredients of most insecticides are not flammable, but the formulation solvents of liquid emulsifiable concentrates or oil solutions (xylene, kerosene, or other organic solvents) are, and present a substantial fire hazard.


Secondary Explosive Devices http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/emergencypreparedness/guides/secondary.html

Phony IDs, Real Danger http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2002/02/26/eveningnews/main502254.shtml

American Muslims and the Threat of Homegrown Terrorism http://www.cfr.org/publication/11509/

Jemaah Islamiyah http://www.cfr.org/publication/8948/

SUICIDE BOMBER FIRST RESPONDER AWARENESS CARD http://www.wiiaai.com/Adobe_PDF's/august_vernon/suicide%20bomber.pdf

Emergency Response to Anhydrous Ammonia http://www.mda.state.mn.us/chemicals/spills/ammoniaspills/default.htm

Training for Railroad Emergencies http://www.fireengineering.com/display_article/364394/25/none/none/Depar/Training-for-Railroad-Emergencies

Mexico's Drug Cartels http://ftp.fas.org/sgp/crs/row/RL34215.pdf

Hazards of Common Pesticides: A Quick Reference Guide http://www.watoxics.org/files/hs-pak-hazards

Identifying Hazardous Materials http://www.fireengineering.com/display_article/309119/25/none/none/BRNIS/Haz-Mat-Survival-Tips:-Identifying-Hazardous-Materials

Hazards of Bug Bombs http://www.doh.wa.gov/ehp/pest/fog-explode.htm

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Secondary Devices A Terrorist Favorite Tactic July 29, 2009