March 1, 2003

Actions Taken in Response to Missing Hazardous Waste Containing Cyanide

Recently, the U.S. Government has become increasingly sensitive to the potential for terrorists to use certain materials as weapons of mass destruction. A report completed by the Central Intelligence Agency stated that “The threat from terrorists using a weapon of mass destruction has increased since Sept. 11, and extremist groups appear most interested in chemicals like cyanide.” For example, in February 2002, four suspected terrorists were arrested in Italy in possession of cyanide and maps of Rome pinpointing the U.S. Embassy and the city’s drinking water network.