The cross-border detection of radiological, biological and chemical active and harmful terrorist devices

Abstract

The cross-border detection of radiological, biological and chemical substances by border authorities is a task of tremendous importance because it prevents terrorists from smuggling 'dirty bombs' into a country in order to perpetrate attacks on world trade. Although it is easy to detect radiological devices by measuring radiation levels, biological and chemical devices pose a much greater challenge. This paper investigates the problems confronting the detection of biological and chemical weapons as well as alternative methods of detection. It also calls for a greater awareness of radiological threats by the border inspection agencies. The paper concludes with a proposal for a World Customs Organization (WCO) recommendation on improving customs authorities' awareness of radiological substances.