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U.K. Installs Radiation Detectors at Entry Points
The United Kingdom has begun installing systems that can detect nuclear weapons or radiological “dirty bombs” at airports, rail stations and ports, the London Independent reported today (see GSN, Feb. 9). Scotland Yard also plans to test individuals on the streets of London for traces of radiation, according to the Independent. The increased surveillance stems from a fear that al-Qaeda might be planning a WMD attack on the country. According to a new report, the Home Office and the Metropolitan Police have installed detection systems at Waterloo station and at London’s airports. Equipment is being placed at other major entry points. A vehicle with a radioactive material detector and a “walkthrough” scanner is also being tested. Ten additional mobile radiation detection units are expected to be deployed around the country. Also planned are “escape hoods” that would enable London police officers to breathe safely in case of a WMD attack. A vehicle capable of “extracting … significant important persons,” such as politicians and law enforcement and medical personnel, is also to be deployed. Commander Mick Messenger, head of law enforcement’s response to a WMD incident, composed the report. It is expected to be presented to high-ranking police officials tomorrow in London. According to the report, “The MPS [Metropolitan Police Service] will be involved in trials of the mobile radiological detection capability and use of a pedestrian portal.” “Radiological detection has been/is being installed in major ports and transport hubs. Waterloo international station and Heathrow airport have fixed detection capabilities.” “Since '9/11' the Metropolitan Police Service has been developing an operational response to a deliberate release of a chemical, biological or radioactive material,” Messenger added. Messenger also said that police are considering forming special WMD teams that would carry firearms and perform surveillance around a terrorists’ hideout to check for traces of radiation. “Officers are also equipped with a range of Home Office approved specialist equipment to assess the release of powder, liquid or vapor,” the report states. “In addition, the MPS has taken delivery of five purpose-built CBRN [Chemical, Biological Radiological or Nuclear] vehicles, including one specially designed for the extraction and decontamination of significant important persons” (Jason Bennetto, Independent, Feb. 22).
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