FBI - Warns stolen fire trucks may be used as bombs

greenspun.com : LUSENET : Current News : One Thread

FBI warns terrorists may steal fire trucks

September 18, 2001 Posted: 5:49 PM EDT (2149 GMT)

By Kelli Arena CNN Washington Bureau

WASHINGTON (CNN) -- The FBI issued a warning to firefighters across the country Tuesday that terrorists could hijack their trucks and use them as bombs.

The FBI warning said fire and emergency services vehicles could be stolen by terrorist groups and turned into rolling bombs aimed at military bases or other government installations.

The FBI asked fire departments to review the security of their stations and vehicles. If a vehicle is stolen, stations were asked to immediately notify the FBI.

The FBI did not say there was any specific and credible threat that caused it to issue the warning.

One official said the FBI is exercising "an abundance of caution" and is passing on all information it is gleaning from interviews and tips, "regardless of the reliability of the source."

Some firefighters told CNN their vehicles -- even those carrying patients -- have been stopped and searched upon entering medical facilities.

The warning came through the National Volunteer Fire Council and the International Association of Fire Chiefs.

-- Anonymous, September 18, 2001

Answers

hmmm, I better warn my neighbor. He personally owns 1 1/3 fire trucks. (One is an antique that I have never seen him take on the road since I moved here. The other he owns in partnership with 2 other guys, a truck they bought from my town when the truck was "retired".)

-- Anonymous, September 18, 2001

I was told last night that there were two firefighters who refused to ride on the firetruck becaue the American Flag that was displayed on it 'offended them.' They have been placed on leave. When they come back, if the problem still exists steps will be initiated to fire them.

I have been looking for this story, but have not found it as yet. Not sure where this took place, but I was told it was somewhere around here in Florida.

The two men are islamic.

-- Anonymous, September 19, 2001


just got this from email.

Opalocka fire station. 2-3 african american muslims refused to answer a call unless the flags were removed. The flags were later replaced by order of the fire chief. A lot of people are pissed off about it.

[The story should be on linesoon at the Miami Herald. Also in the paper tomorrow.]

Opa-Locka is in North Miami-Dade county.

-- Anonymous, September 19, 2001


Moderation questions? read the FAQ