See also International Bioterrorism Tabletop Exercise (September 2009)

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The bioterrorism threat: strengthening law enforcement

Why is bioterrorism such a threat?

The world is largely unaware of, and therefore largely unprepared for, bioterrorist attacks. Bio-weapons 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.

Bio-technology is undergoing rapid evolution. This process, and the wide dissemination of developments, is already proving difficult to manage. There is evidence that terrorist organizations have a heightened interest in the use of biological weapons, establishing terrorist support cells in different regions around the world with the ability and motivation to carry out attacks.

An easy option?

An effective biological weapon is potentially devastating and much easier to make and transport than a nuclear weapon. Bio-weapons are, however, relatively safe for the terrorist. Pathogens (biological agents or germs) are virtually undetectable and can be brought reasonably easily into a country by an individual and can then be propagated in large quantities.

Recognising the imminent dangers represented by this lethal form of crime is the first step in countering the threat. Thereafter it is vital to put in place the tools which will enable society to take appropriate measures.

Isn't there a law against it?

In many countries, criminal justice systems are constrained by inadequate legal frameworks governing the detection and repression of bio-weapons. Frequently, no law is violated until the disease or biological agent is actually deployed. Law enforcement officers are therefore unable to begin preliminary investigations into the development of such weapons. Without laws which criminalise activity relating to bio-weapons, there is no basis for legal assistance or co-operation to prevent their production and transport.

There is therefore an urgent need to ensure that countries are adequately prepared for, protected from, and able to respond to bioterrorism attacks. Law enforcement agencies have a crucial role to play, with significant support from, and in collaboration with a range of other national and international bodies.

What has been done?

As a direct result of a grant of nearly one million dollars from the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, Secretary General Ronald K. Noble has been able to create a dedicated unit at the Interpol General Secretariat in Lyon, France. This unit has developed a programme to build national and international capacity to counter the threat of bioterrorism. (Read media release)

The plan

This bioterrorism programme is currently engaged to :

• raise awareness of the threat
• develop police training programmes
• strengthen efforts to enforce existing legislation
• promote the development of new legislation
• encourage inter-agency co-operation on bioterrorism

Presentations

For further information about Interpol's bioterrorism programme funded by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, please contact:

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Bioterrorism