International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) officials are touting a recent gathering of 220 chemical security practitioners from over 70 countries to address combating terrorism, chemical weapons, and explosives use.
INTERPOL hosted its third Global Congress on Chemical Security and Emerging Threats, citing a focus on the acquisition, transportation, and physical and cyber security of chemical materials.
According to authorities, more than 1,000 improvised explosive device (IED) attacks were conducted by perpetrators last year, injuring over 7,150 people in over 40 countries.
Many of the attacks stemmed from chemicals criminals acquired through weak points in the supply chain.
“As the ramifications of such heinous acts resonate beyond borders and touch every level of society, a committed transversal and global response is required,” INTERPOL Counter-Terrorism Director Greg Hinds said. “The concerted effort of global law enforcement, along with our partners, is key to combating the use of explosive precursor chemicals and chemical weapons.”
Proposed measures stemming from the session, per officials, include advocating chemical security recommendations focusing on increased retail reporting on suspicious activity; broadening the INTERPOL-hosted Global Knowledge Hub, which allows members to engage in interactive discussions and access good practice guidance; bolstering the Global Congress Network through greater diversity of expertise and activities across regions and sectors; and promoting decision-making tools that include a customer database to flag areas of security concern.
“Multi-sector collaboration is essential for us to tackle the threats we face from criminals who gain access to dangerous chemicals with malevolent intentions,” Mohammed Dkhissi, head of National Central Bureau – Rabat, said. “Morocco is committed to strengthening the engagement of these issues as part of our proactive approach to combating terrorism.”