24 January,2011 08:01 AM IST | | Mohit Sharma
IB advisory suggests extremists might employ explosives containing radioactive material on R-Day
Intelligence agencies have warned of possible use of radioactive material in the form of 'dirty' bombs by terrorists during the Republic Day celebrations.
New threat: Security personnel are being trained to handle attacks
using unconventional weapons. File pic
According to an advisory issued by the Intelligence Bureau to the Delhi police, terrorists and other criminal groups might resort to the use of unconventional weapons to wreck mayhem and destruction in the city.
"Although, terrorists have been relying more on firearms and explosive devices, exploring high power technical weapons using radioactive material remains a distinct possibility. The unconventional targets of the World Trade Centre and the Pentagon on September 11, 2001 by aircraft have confirmed that terrorists are prepared to go to any extent to achieve their ends.
It is therefore imperative for the security forces to be familiar with the range of threats for devising appropriate counter means," the advisory regarding the threat perception stated.
Sources in the IB said that even though they have been sending such alerts for the last few years now, the current advisory is based on a report prepared by the security agencies gauging the possible usage of radioactive material by the terrorists.
"According to an intelligence input, some extremists organisations are also planning 9/11 type of attacks using planes carrying personnel and weapons on board. These organisations may also try to use nitrocellulose (a highly inflammable substance) camouflaged in substances like household goods, toys or any other unsuspicious common articles. Further, the detonators for these explosives can be carried in the form of flash lights, cameras or capsules," the intelligence input states.
When contacted, no senior Delhi police officer was available for comments. Police sources said that considering the threat, they have started organising regular training programmes for their men on how to deal with the radioactive material.
| Full blast! |
| A dirty bomb is not a nuclear bomb but a radiological dispersion device whereu00a0 conventional explosives are packed with radioactive material.u00a0 When such a bomb is exploded, it will disperse the radioactive substance. A high dose of high energy radiation, such as X-ray emitted by radioactive dust, can induce cancer. Although the dispersal of radioactive material and radiation from the bomb will not be effective in killing people, it could disrupt the living conditions in the area contaminated. Contamination depends upon on the size of the explosive, amount and type of radioactive material and weather conditions. |
