Sochi Threat Update: Toothpaste Bombs
Officials are warning airlines with flights headed to Russia to be on the lookout for toothpaste bombs, casting suspicion on pretty much anyone who practices basic dental hygiene. According to ABC, toothpaste containers "may actually hold ingredients that could be used to construct a bomb aboard a plane."
The senior official also told ABC that "While we are not aware of a specific threat to the homeland at this time, this routine communication is an important part of our commitment to making sure we meet that priority." So despite no specific threat existing, people traveling to Sochi might want to stay vigilant and keep an eye on anyone traveling with toothpaste. Passengers might also want to be on the lookout for suitcases, purses, laptop bags, and any other hollow containers that can hold stuff.
The possible threat of a fiery bomb and/or cavity-fighting fluoride was enough to make Representative Peter King stay away from the games. King chairs the House Homeland Security Committee's Sub-Committee on Counterterrorism and Intelligence. He told CNN, "Just as a spectator, I don't think it's worth the risk. I mean, odds are nothing is going to happen, but the odds are higher than for any other Olympics, I believe, that something could happen." It definitely sounds like maybe possibly a thing could happen somewhere that could be related to the Olympics or maybe not.
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Tension surrounding security at the Olympics has been running high in the wake of three recent suicide bombings in the country. More than 40,000 security personnel are maintaining what Russian officials are referring to as a "ring of steel."
The new supposed threat has not yet altered America's guidelines for travelers headed to Sochi, but obviously the intelligence sector is going to keep an eye on things. Two U.S. warships will also reside in the Black Sea for the duration of the Games.
This article was originally published at http://www.thewire.com/global/2014/02/sochi-threat-update-toothpaste-bombs/357772/
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