Need to prepare for bioterror attack stressed

Abu Dhabi: Terrorists land at an airport carrying pathogens that could claim hundreds of lives. Security officials recognise the threat and get ready to move in.

The scenario may seem straight out of a Tom Clancy novel, but nevertheless bioterrorism is a real security threat that cannot be dismissed, an Interpol official has said.

"The threat of bioterrorism is for real and it is deadly as it has the potential to kill hundreds, thousands or even millions," said John Abbott, Chairman of the Bioterrorism Prevention Steering Group at Interpol.

"But many nations still underestimate the need to prepare for such an attack," he said, adding that such lack of preparedness could mean loss of many lives.

"There is much evidence suggesting terrorists are likely to use bioweapons. Its sheer potential to affect millions itself mandates preparedness," he stressed.

Routine concern

While terrorism and measures to counter it have become a matter of routine concern and discussion by security officials around the globe, this relatively less known type of terrorism was under the spotlight at an Interpol training programme hosted by the UAE Interior Ministry.

Experts from Interpol and prominent global security agencies gathered to train officials working in the area.

"As technology continues to expand, new pathogens and pathogen making techniques are rapidly proliferating, increasing the risk of terrorists using them," Abbott said, delivering the keynote address.

Bioweapons are relatively easier for terrorists to handle as they are potentially devastating and much easier to make and transport than a nuclear weapon.

Abbott cited the anthrax attack in the US in 2001 as an example of bioterrorism.

Five people died after a series of anthrax tainted letters were sent through the US postal system.

"The world is largely unaware of, and therefore largely unprepared for, bioterrorist attacks. Bioweapons threaten thousands of casualties in addition to other disastrous long-term consequences.

"Criminal networks can covertly transport lethal agents across borders and terrorists have already proven that anthrax can be fatally deployed," Interpol's website said.