New Terror Threat: What You Need to Know About Undetectable Surgically Implanted Bombs
Security has been increased at certain overseas airports amid reports of a new terrorism threat. The tightened security is focused on U.S.-bound flights from European, African, and Middle Eastern countries. Yahoo Travel breaks down the threat and what it means for your next trip.
(Photo: AP)
Who: Ibrahim Hassan al-Asiri is a Saudi-born al-Qaida follower in Yemen who is known for building hard-to-detect bombs. He reportedly armed the “underwear bomber” who attempted to detonate explosives on a flight on Christmas in 2009.
The Threat: Al-Asiri is believed to have created a nonmetallic bomb that can be implanted in the body of a suicide bomber or sewn into clothing. Intelligence officials think the surgically implanted bombs are undetectable by pat-downs and current security scanning and metal detectors.
Related: Carry-on Crackdown: Your Bag May Now Be Too Big
The Reaction: In a statement, U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson said there will be “enhanced security measures,” including increased passenger screening, at selected airports with direct flights to the United States.
"We are sharing recent and relevant information with our foreign allies and consulting the aviation industry," Johnson added. "These communications are an important part of our commitment to providing our security partners with situational awareness about the current environment and protecting the traveling public."
In Britain, airport security officials said the new measures could include enhanced efforts to scrutinize electronics and shoes, in particular, for nonmetallic explosives.
On Tuesday we will take a look at how these new security measures will affect you on your next trip.
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