AUTHOR:
TerrorismCentral Editorial Staff
TITLE:
TerrorismCentral Newsletter - July 16, 2006
SOURCE:
TerrorismCentral, July 16, 2006
TEXT:
India's commercial capital, Mumbai (Bombay), was the scene of a major attack on 11 July when seven coordinated explosions ripped apart local trains during the rush hour commute, killing more than 230 people and injuring more than 700 injured. A day later, this tragedy was pushed aside by the widening conflict in the Middle East. Already launching major operations in Gaza, Israel opened a second front against Hezbollah and Lebanon. Meanwhile, the issues of nuclear terrorism and the unresolved issues regarding the nuclear programs in North Korea and Iran continue to fester, and global security is plumbing new depths. On a different note, the Happy Planet Index, which measures consumption levels, life expectancy, and happiness rather than national economic wealth, finds that Vanuatu is the happiest nation - islands in general performed well.
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GTM Africa
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The Front for the Liberation of the Enclave of Cabinda (FLEC) says they
are prepared for dialog with the Angolan government rather than continuing
the 30-year conflict fought for self-determination. A delegation from
the oil-rich area, which provides more than half of Angola's income,
will meet next week with the Angolan government and African Union representatives
in Brazzaville, Republic of Congo, next week. This delegation represents
one faction of FLEC.
http://www.irinnews.org/report.asp?ReportID=54542
http://www.cabinda.org/
http://www.ibinda.com/
(in Portuguese)
http://www.irinnews.org/webspecials/cabinda/default.asp
A Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) military tribunal in the northeastern
Ituri region is trying in absentia former Union of Congolese Patriots
(UPC) commander and Party for the Unity and Safeguarding the Integrity
of the Congo (PUSIC) founder Yves Kahwa Panga Mandro. The former militia
leader refuses to attend the tribunal because he believes it is under
the influence of the UN mission. He is charged with organizing an insurrection
and committing crimes against humanity. The government has agreed to
National Integration Front (FNI) leader Peter Karim Udaga request to
be integrated into the national army.
In southern Nigeria two explosions damaged an oil pipeline, but the operator
Agip, a subsidiary of Eni, said that only minor repairs are needed and
will be completed soon. Nigerian militants have shut down about a quarter
of Nigeria's normal oil production.
Heavy fighting in Somalia's capital Mogadishu concluded in the defeat
of warlord Abdi Qeybdid's forces and victory for the Union of Islamic
Courts (UIC). Two days of rocket and artillery fire left about 100 dead
and 200 injured. Qeybdid fled to Baidoa to meet with interim President
Abdullahi Yusuf, while some 500 of his militiamen surrendered to UIC.
UIC controls Mogadishu, and about a fifth of the country.
Internecine fighting among rebel groups in Darfur, Sudan has left more
than 80 people dead. This latest fighting began earlier this month, when
Minni Minnawi's faction of the Sudan Liberation Army (SLA) attacked the
town of Korma. Amid brutal fighting, systematic violence against women,
and arbitrary executions - previously associated with government-backed
militias - control of the town has changed hands three times. There has
been massive displacement of the population and outside peacekeepers
and humanitarian workers have not been able to reach the area. Minnawi's
faction of SLA is the only group involved in the peace agreement, which
has been rejected by the other rebel groups.
Ugandan President Museveni has extended the deadline for peace talks
with Lord's Resistance Army (LRA) rebels to mid-September. The Ugandan
government and a junior delegation of Lord's Resistance Army (LRA) rebels
have begun peace talks in southern Sudan, with the rebels stressing they
remain willing and able to continue fighting. Senior LRA leaders, wanted
by the International Criminal Court (ICC), did not attend.
http://www.icc-cpi.int/press/pressreleases/167.html
http://www.icc-cpi.int/cases/UGD.html
http://www.un.org/Docs/journal/asp/ws.asp?m=s/2006/478
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GTM Americas
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A series of attacks in Sap Paulo, Brazil has left six people dead and
many others injured. The organized criminal gang, First Command of the
Capital (PCC), is believed responsible for nearly 40 assaults against
police stations, banks, supermarkets, car dealerships, buses, and other
commercial targets. Following 68 incidents in which buses were set afire,
companies refused to continue operating. Police are not patrolling major
bus routes, thereby permitting limited bus travel.
Canada's Federal Court of Appeal panel dismissed government arguments
to again imprison al Qaeda suspect Mohamed Harkat. He will be under heavily
restricted bail while arguments continue over deportation Harkat's native
Algeria, where he claims he would be tortured.
The Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) has kidnapped 170 timber
workers from the Choco jungles. Ten were killed, and five hostages escaped.
The timber workers were accused of collaborating with paramilitary forces
that have been fighting FARC.
In El Salvador, a police officer was shot dead by suspected Mara 18 gang
members, three of whom were also killed. Police carried out a major anti-gang
operation in which more than 190 suspected members of the ultra-violent
gang were arrested, some while attending church services.
The US Senate Judiciary Committee held a hearing on "Hamdan v. Rumsfeld:
Establishing a Constitutional Process". Reviewing options following
the Supreme Court's decision that the military tribunals as constituted
violated both domestic and international law, the Bush administration
called for the Congress to endorse the tribunals as they are. That testimony
was followed by six Judge Advocates, representing all branches of the
military, who made it clear that changes to the Commissions were both
necessary and in keeping with security and policy goals. They also cited
frequent factual errors, easily disproved assertions, and other issues,
while calling the code of military justice a gold standard. Committee
members have made it clear that there will be no blank check and that
administration policy would be reviewed in full. The same day, the White
House modified a 2002 executive order to say that terror detainees are
now entitled to the Geneva Conventions, in accordance with the Supreme
Court's interpretation.
http://judiciary.senate.gov/hearing.cfm?id=1986
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/07/14/AR2006071401307.html
The House Committee on Homeland Security, Subcommittee on Management,
Integration, and Oversight, held oversight hearings on Post 9/11 Assistance
to New York City. The 3-part sessions covered Response, Recovery, and
Rebuilding. The Committee is preparing a report incorporates multiple
findings about the hodgepodge response in disaster assistance. Already
it is clear that many lessons learned in the 9/11 response have not been
applied to more recent disasters. Here are links to the testimony:
Ms. Ruth Ritzema, Special Agent in Charge for New York, Office of Inspector
General, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
http://hsc.house.gov/files/TestimonyRitzema.pdf
Hon. Eric Thorson, Inspector General, U.S. Small Business Administration
http://hsc.house.gov/files/TestimonyThorson.pdf
Mr. Douglas Small, Deputy Assistant Secretary
Employment and Training, U.S. Department of Labor
http://hsc.house.gov/files/TestimonySmall.pdf
Mr. Leroy Frazer, Bureau Chief, Special Prosecutions Bureau
New York County District Attorney’s Office
http://hsc.house.gov/files/TestimonyFrazer.pdf
Ms. Eileen Mildenberger, Chief Operating Officer, Empire State Development
Corporation
http://hsc.house.gov/files/TestimonyMildenberger.pdf
Mr. Stefan Pryor, President, Lower Manhattan Development Corporation
http://hsc.house.gov/files/TestimonyPryor.pdf
Mr. John Wang, Founder and President, Asian American Business Development
Center
http://hsc.house.gov/files/TestimonyWang.pdf
Ms. Bettina Damiani, Project Director, Good Jobs New York
http://hsc.house.gov/files/TestimonyDamiani.pdf
Mr. Bernard Cohen, Director, Lower Manhattan Recovery Office, Federal
Transit Administration, U.S. Department of Transportation
http://hsc.house.gov/files/TestimonyCohen.pdf
Mr. Todd J. Zinser, Acting Inspector General, U.S. Department of Transportation
http://hsc.house.gov/files/TestimonyZinser.pdf
Mr. Ron Calvosa, Director of Fraud Prevention, Lower Manhattan Construction
Command Center
http://hsc.house.gov/files/TestimonyCalvosa.pdf
Mr. Michael Nestor, Director Office of Investigations, Port Authority
of New York and New Jersey
http://hsc.house.gov/files/TestimonyNestor.pdf
Mr. Joe Picciano, Deputy Director for Region II, Federal Emergency Management
Agency
http://hsc.house.gov/files/TestimonyPicciano.pdf
Hon. Richard Skinner, Inspector General U.S. Department of Homeland Security
http://hsc.house.gov/files/TestimonySkinner.pdf
Mr. Greg Kutz
Director Financial Management and Assurance, U.S. Government Accountability
Office
http://hsc.house.gov/files/TestimonyKutz.pdf
Hon. Rose Gill Hearn
Commissioner New York City Department of Investigation
http://hsc.house.gov/files/TestimonyHearn.pdf
Mr. David J. Varoli, General Counsel New York City Department of Design
and Construction
http://hsc.house.gov/files/TestimonyVaroli.pdf
Mr. Neil Getnick, President International Association of Independent
Inspectors General
http://hsc.house.gov/files/TestimonyGetnick.pdf
Ms. Carie Lemack, Co-Founder Families of September 11
http://hsc.house.gov/files/TestimonyLemack.pdf
Ms. Leigh Bradley, Senior Vice President for Enterprise Risk
American Red Cross
http://hsc.house.gov/files/TestimonyBradley.pdf
The US Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) Inspector General released "Progress
in Developing the National Asset Database" (NADB). This database
is one of the components in the risk management framework to coordinate
critical infrastructure protection. As of January, NADB contained 77,069
assets, not distinguished by criticality pending completion of the essential
step of risk assessment. The report summarizes the status of the project,
and expresses particular concerns about unusual or out-o-place assets
identified by states. NADB indicates that 32,631 listed assets are not
nationally significant, outnumbering significant assets by 3 to 1. Examples
cited include petting zoos, retail establishments including donut and
bait shops, bingo, and a popcorn company. There are many other indications
of problematic data, not least of which is that Indiana lists 8,591 assets,
more than any other state, and 50 percent more than New York. Such inconsistencies
gravely hinder understanding of risk and the ability to appropriately
assess protective measures and necessary investments.
http://www.dhs.gov/dhspublic/interweb/assetlibrary/OIG_06-40_Jun06.pdf
Marko Boskic was found guilty in federal court on two counts of lying
to US immigration. Posing as a refugee, he in fact participated in a
Serbian unit involved in the ethnic cleansing at Srebrenica during the
Bosnian war. Sentencing is scheduled for 24 October. Evidence against
Boskic was deemed insufficient to justify special charges under federal
torture laws that require intent.
http://www.boston.com/news/globe/city_region/breaking_news/2006/07/bosnian_immigra.html
"Venezuela: Terrorism Hub of South America?" was the topic
of a House International Relations Committee hearing that included testimony
alleging links to terrorist organizations and state sponsors of terrorism.
Failure to fully cooperate with the US counterterrorism efforts results
in a US prohibition against arms sales.
http://wwwc.house.gov/international_relations/itnhear.htm
http://www.voanews.com/english/2006-07-13-voa71.cfm
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GTM Asia Pacific
--------------------------------------------------
Australian Justice Anthony Whealy was preparing to sentence Faheem Khalid
Lodhi, the first person convicted of planning a terrorist act in Australia,
only to discover a legislative change that must be taken into account
prior to sentencing, which will now take place 23 August.
http://www.theage.com.au/news/National/New-laws-delay-Lodhis-terror-sentencing/2006/07/13/1152637783656.html
Burma's separatist Karen National Union (KNU) rebels have demanded that
Thailand cease construction of a highway that KNU says would increase
the suppression of the minority group, one of many under attack by Burma's
military government.
Indonesian police have arrested a third suspect in last week's bombing
in South Sulawesi that killed a 13-year-old boy.
Unrest in southern Thailand continued. Suspected militants undertook
multiple drive-by shootings. Among the casualties were a rubber tapper,
a dam guard, defense volunteers and police. A homemade bomb detonated
by mobile phone near the entrance to a school injured a security officer
and two children. Troops responding to the attack were targeted by a
boobytrap that left the soldiers unharmed but severely injured a civilian
driving behind.
Rommuelee Jeh-ha Samoh, with the Thai militant group Runda Kumpulan Kecil
(RKK), has been placed on the most wanted list of Muslim insurgents for
his role in the school attack.
--------------------------------------------------
GTM Europe
--------------------------------------------------
In the Georgia-Ossetia conflict zone, tensions have increased since the
only border crossing was closed on 8 July, although Georgia has permitted
crossings at an unofficial border point. A Security official was killed
in a bomb attack in South Ossetia: details are under investigation. South
Ossetian officers briefly detained two international monitors. On Friday
morning, a bomb exploded in the South Ossetian town of Tskhinvali. 16-year-old
Ibragim Gazzayev and 15-year-old Artur Tedeyev were killed. A 13-year
old and two other people were injured. The incident is being investigated
as a terrorist attack. South Ossetia has blamed Georgian secret services.
Russian security forces report that Chechen rebel warlord Shamil Basayev
- the mastermind of the Beslan school siege - and three other militants
have died in an explosion. Conflicting reports attribute the deaths to
a truck carrying explosives or a Russian special operation. Despite claims
from Russia, his death is unlikely to end the separatist movement.
http://www.hurriyet.com.tr/english/4745169.asp?gid=74
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/4727935.stm
http://www.cfr.org/publication/11095/babitsky.html
In fighting in Dagestan, one report suggests that a chemical weapon was
used against the rebels.
http://www.kavkazcenter.com/eng/content/2006/07/13/4967_print.html
Britain has released "Countering International Terrorism: The United
Kingdom’s Strategy".
http://security.homeoffice.gov.uk/news-and-publications1/publication-search/general/Contest-Strategy
Parliament's House of Commons debated the annual report of parliament's
Intelligence and Security Committee. Home Secretary John Reid revealed
an error in the official account of the 7/7 bombings, which provided
a chronology that said the four bombers had left Luton train station
at 0740 when they had actually left at 0725. Police brought out the inaccuracy,
and Reid has asked for an explanation of the error, which he believes
is the only one.
http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200506/cmhansrd/cm060711/debtext/60711-0875.htm#06071165000001
http://www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/intelligence/
Court proceedings against "LL" have been launched for breaching
a control order. This is the first such case, and cannot proceed until
the Court of Appeal reviews court rulings that the control orders are
illegal because they impose detention without charge, in violation of
the European Convention on Human Rights. The hearing on Friday was the
last one in the Bow Street Magistrate's Court, which has been closed
after 267 years, and will be turned into a luxury hotel.
The UK Home Office has unveiled a new system of terror threat alert that
reduces the number of levels from seven to five, and links to them three
response levels to indicate appropriate security response. The new system
launches 1 August.
http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/about-us/news/counter-terrorism-documents
The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) is conducting an
inquiry into the shooting involved in last month's anti-terror raid.
IPCC has now launched a second inquiry into claims by neighbors that
they were also assaulted.
http://www.ipcc.gov.uk/
In Northern Ireland, tens of thousands joined the Twelfth of July parades
marking the anniversary of the Battle of the Boyne, and the climax of
the Protestant marching season. This was the most peaceful in several
years, with only minor disturbances and no need for army support of police.
Note our prior coverage of marching season:
http://www.terrorismcentral.com/Newsletters/2003/070603.html#FeatureArticle
Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams said the way the Irish Republican Army (IRA)
had dealt with the bodies of those they abducted and murdered was wrong,
and a violation of human rights. He said that Sinn Fein, the IRA, and
the Irish government are cooperating to recover the five remaining Disappeared.
IRA members involved in the killings have visited burial sites with a
forensic expert, but these people had indirect knowledge only because
those directly responsible had died in the intervening years.
http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/story.jsp?story=698478
--------------------------------------------------
GTM Middle East
--------------------------------------------------
Egypt's North Sinai Governor Ahmed Abdel Hamid ordered a state of emergency
to deal with a possible border crisis following Palestinian militants
destruction of a section of the Egypt-Gaza border wall, to enable hundreds
of stranded people to cross into Gaza.
Egypt's Foreign Ministry reports that a civilian ship was hit by Israeli
fire exchanged with Hezbollah in Lebanon, which Israel is holding under
a total naval blockade. The 12 crew members were rescued, and only one
was seriously injured.
In Gaza an Israeli air strike killed three teenagers and injured a fourth
as they played soccer. As their offensive to free abducted soldier Gilad
Shalit continued, two Islamic Jihad militants were killed and six people
were injured. A Hamas militant was killed and a second wounded. Another
attack directed against Hamas injured an 8-year-old girl and four other
Palestinians. Israel's promise to intensify Operation Summer Rains was
kept in strikes that continued throughout the week, including further
attacks against infrastructure targets that have further deepened the
humanitarian crisis. During air raids on Tuesday, one Palestinian was
killed and about six injured. On Wednesday, a couple and their seven
children were killed in an air raid targeting a Hamas member. Other military
actions killed at least 16 more Palestinians, and injured twice that
number. The Palestinian Foreign ministry was bombed on Thursday, injuring
ten children including a 4-month and a 6-month old babies. A number of
people have died from heat or illness when stranded at border crossings
or unable to get medical treatment. Fighting continued on Friday while
Israeli troops pulled back, but they returned on Saturday. An air strike
on a house killed one person and injured several others, including children.
Another Palestinian was killed by helicopter fire. An air strike early
on Sunday killed three and injured eight.
The weekend wave of vicious sectarian attacks in Baghdad continued as
the new week began. A series of explosions in several areas of Baghdad
killed at least ten people and injured more than 40. Gunmen ambushed
a bus , killing six. A roadside bomb injured five policemen. In Suwayra,
five unidentified bodies were found. Outside Kurdish party offices in
Kirkuk a suicide bomber blew up a truck, killing at least three and injuring
seven. Near Hilla a roadside bomb killed a policeman and injured four.
Diyala provincial councilor Adnan Iskandar al-Mahdawi was killed in a
drive-by shooting. On Tuesday, gunmen attacked a minibus in Baghdad,
killing ten Shia on their way to a funeral. A suicide bomber at a Baghdad
restaurant popular among police killed five and injured ten. Five Iraqi
employees of a Saudi import/export company were shot dead. In other incidents,
20 more people were killed. On Wednesday, a suicide bomber in a Baghdad
restaurant killed seven and injured 20. Gunmen seized some 80 passengers
and drivers from a bus station in Diyala province. 23 bodies were found
soon after, and 22 more bodies were found on Thursday. Other incidents
on Thursday left at least 12 more dead. On Friday, gunmen used rocket-propelled
grenades and machine guns to attack a checkpoint south of Kirkuk, killing
13 Iraqi soldiers. Prayer services on Friday attracted more attacks,
including two bombs in Baghdad that killed at least four, and injured
many others. Mortar rounds at another mosque killed two and injured five.
There were other shootings, and several bodies found. On Saturday, gunmen
kidnapped Iraq's Olympic committee head Ahmed al-Hadjiya, 30 other officials,
and 20 bodyguards and staff. The body of one guard was found soon after.
Five officials have been released. The kidnappers wore army or police
uniforms when they took control of the convoy. A British soldier died
during fighting insurgents in Basra. Today, a suicide bomber in a northern
cafe killed at least 19 and injured 25.
The al-Qaeda-linked Mujahideen Shura Council released a video showing
the mutilated bodies of two US soldiers. The Council said they had been
killed to revenge the US soldiers' rape and murder of a 14-year-old Iraqi
girl. The soldiers involved have been charged in the case.
The International Crisis Group released "Iraq's Muqtada Al-Sadr:
Spoiler or Stabiliser?" They explain:
"With stepped-up U.S.-led raids against Muqtada al-Sadr's militia,
Jaysh al-Mahdi, and media allegations of its responsibility for the horrific
killings in Baghdad on 9 July that threaten new escalation of sectarian
violence, he and his movement have become more vital than ever. In the
immediate aftermath of Saddam's ouster, Muqtada was known chiefly for
disruptive behaviour. Two years later, he has political power and a very
different role. The Sadrist movement has deep roots in contemporary Iraq
and expresses many justified grievances. But as sectarian tensions have
grown, so too has his movement's involvement in the dirty war of Sunnis
against Shiites. Muqtada must be recognised as a serious political actor,
but if he is to be a constructive one, he must do more to exercise responsible
leadership and defuse his movement's violent inclinations."
http://www.crisisgroup.org/home/index.cfm?l=1&id=4210
Israel opened a second front on Wednesday after Hezbollah captured two
Israeli soldiers. Again refusing a prisoner exchange, Israel launched
massive attacks in Lebanon (see below). Fighting was focused in Lebanon
until Saturday, when Hezbollah launched rockets that landed in Israel's
coastal city of Haifa. This was the first time rockets were able to reach
that far south. On Sunday the rocket attacks took a deadly turn in Haifa,
killing eight Israeli railway workers and injuring dozens when one of
more than a dozen rockets crashed through the roof of a railway depot.
Following this, Hezbollah leader in Beirut, Sayyed Hassan Nasrullah,
has declared open war with Israel.
Here is background on Hezbollah, "Party of God", a Shia Muslim
organization with a powerful military, backed by Iran, and participates
in the Lebanese parliament.
http://www.terrorismcentral.com/Library/terroristgroups/Hizballah/HizballahDS.html
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/4314423.stm
The death toll from this offensive includes twelve Israeli soldiers,
four Israelis in addition to the eight rail workers, and more than 100
Lebanese, mostly civilians. Many times these numbers have been injured.
Lebanese Prime Minister Fouad Seniora has made a desperate, emotional
plea for a ceasefire and a UN-supervised truce to end the "murderous
machine" and collective punishment of a country whose government
played no part in the Hezbollah attacks. In addition to heavy casualties,
Israeli attacks are destroying the country's infrastructure, still not
recovered from its tragic civil war. Israel is enforcing a complete air
and sea blockade. The international airport, bridges, roads, fuel depots,
power stations, and other critical infrastructure components have been
seriously damaged or destroyed. Israel has dropped leaflets warning residents
to leave their homes in the south, as they are targeting homes and neighborhoods
with a Hezbollah presence. Attacks today reportedly included a number
of foreign visitors.
Interpol has issued a worldwide alert following confirmation of a prison
break in Saudi Arabia by suspected Al Qaeda-linked terrorists. The six
Saudis and one Yemeni escaped from the Malaz prison in Riyadh on 8 July.
Blue Notices including photographs and fingerprints have been issued.
This is the second time in six months that Interpol has learned about
the escape of charged or convicted terrorists through the media, exposing
a serious weak link in the chain of global security.
http://www.interpol.int/Public/ICPO/PressReleases/PR2006/PR200623.asp
--------------------------------------------------
GTM South Asia
--------------------------------------------------
In Afghanistan's Uruzgan province, an Afghan soldier was killed and three
US-led coalition soldiers injured in an air operation that reportedly
killed more than 40 Taleban insurgents. A suicide taxi bomber drove his
vehicle into a US-led troop convoy, killing himself and a child, and
injuring two US soldiers and three children. Some 19 suspected Taleban
were killed in clashes in Helmand on Thursday. Further heavy fighting
in the south killed 26 suspected Taleban on Saturday. Today, a suicide
bomber in Paktia province killed four people outside a government building
checkpoint, and injured 23.
"Lessons in Terror: Attacks on Education in Afghanistan" is
a new report from Human Rights Watch that documents 204 attacks on teachers,
students, and schools since January 2005. More attacks remain undocumented,
but indications are that attacks so far this year already exceed the
total for all of 2005.
http://www.hrw.org/english/docs/2006/07/06/afghan13700.htm
In Bangladesh, trials of Jama'atul Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) leaders
have been delayed repeatedly when prison and law enforcement authorities
were unable or unwilling to bring the accused to court as scheduled.
http://www.thedailystar.net/2006/07/11/d6071101096.htm
India's commercial capital, Mumbai (Bombay), was the scene of a major
attack on 11 July when seven coordinated explosions ripped apart local
trains during the rush hour commute. At least 223 people were killed
and more than 700 injured. The subsequent investigation revealed that
the bomb used plastic explosives and a timer, and were planted in first-class
men's compartments, thereby targeting the city's business elite. Monsoon
rains hindered recovery efforts, but the immediate political response
stemmed any economic threat, demonstrated by a rise in the stock market.
Several militant groups have issued denials or responsibility, but none
have claimed credit. The investigation has focused on militant Islamic
groups, particularly Lashkar-e-Toiba. There have been suggestions that,
as in the similar cases in London and Madrid, links to al Qaeda may yet
be found. Lashkar itself has denied involvement, but they have used the
simultaneous explosion technique in the past.
In Indian-administered Kashmir, there have been a number of attacks.
The most serious was on 11 July when a tourist vehicle was attacked with
grenades, killing eight people and injuring 30. A second attack killed
four and injured two Mudasir Gujri ("Raju"), an Indian, has
been arrested on suspicion of masterminding the attacks.
Nepali police arrested two Pakistani men on explosives charges and are
investigating possible connections to the Mumbai bombings.
Pakistani Shia cleric Allama Hassan Turabi was killed by a suicide bomber
in Karachi. A relative was also killed, and two of his security guards
were injured. At the funeral angry mourners took to the streets and there
were scenes f sectarian violence.
Sri Lankan government forces clashed with Tamil Tigers in the eastern
Batticaloa district, killing at least 12 soldiers and four rebels. A
Tiger sniper is suspected in the death of a Trincomalee sailor.
For detailed analysis, background information and source documents available
only to subscribers of the Political Risk Monitor, visit our online store:
TAMNI
Publications
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PRM Africa
--------------------------------------------------
Central African Republic will receive military personnel and logistics
support from France to help restore security in the north, where large
numbers of foreign troops are operating.
http://www.irinnews.org/report.asp?ReportID=54583
Democratic Republic of Congo is preparing for its historic elections
and campaigning has begun. An investigation has been launched into an
incident on Tuesday, when Kinshasa police fired tear gas to break up
an opposition demonstration. At least ten people were injured, and the
inquiry is evaluating whether such force was justified. Incidents of
intimidation and obstruction have also been reported, but campaigning
is generally proceeding well.
http://www.cartercenter.org/doc2401.htm
http://www.irinnews.org/DRCelection.asp
Guinea's opposition leader Jean-Marie Dore has called for President Lansana
Conte to resign due to his ill health.
Ivory Coast has delayed distribution of identity papers to establish
citizenship for individuals (with at least one Ivorian parent) who were
born in the country. The issue of immigrants as citizens was one of the
main triggers to the 2002 civil war, and the identification plan remains
both controversial and problematic.
http://www.irinnews.org/report.asp?ReportID=54612
http://www.alertnet.org/thenews/newsdesk/L13826841.htm
http://www.alertnet.org/thenews/newsdesk/L13767866.htm
Somalia's international airport has resumed flights for the first time
in eleven years. The first flight took a Union of Islamic Courts (UIC)
delegation to the Sudan to attend talks with the Arab League and the
interim government. However, interim President Abdullahi Yusuf has accused
UIC of breaking a ceasefire and with the backing of foreign fighters
from Ethiopia, Turkey, Afghanistan, and Arab states, is planning an attack
on the interim government's base in Baidoa. The UIC went ahead with the
Arab League meeting, despite Yusuf's boycott, and reiterated their respect
for the legitimacy of the interim government. Meanwhile, the UN says
it is prepared to lift the arms embargo to support an international peacekeeping
force.
About 100 traders in the Somali town of Jowhar protested against new
taxes imposed by the Union of Islamic Courts (UIC). UIC arrested several
of the protestors, and one person was shot dead.
Zimbabwean opposition member of parliament Timothy Mubawu, with the Movement
for Democratic Change (MDC), has been charged and denied bail for allegedly
organizing last week's attack on Trudy Stevenson and four other parliamentarians
who are with a rival MDC faction. MDC leader, Morgan Tsvangirai, continues
to charge the government with responsibility for the assault.
--------------------------------------------------
PRM Americas
--------------------------------------------------
Argentina's effort to stop Uruguay's construction of two pulp mills along
the River Uruguay has been defeated in the International Court of Justice
(ICJ). Argentina fears the mills will pollute the shared river and harm
the eco-tourism industry, but the ICJ ruled that construction could continue
while evaluating the risks presented during operation. Although failing
to achieve the provisional ruling, Argentina's case will now be studied
in full. The final conclusion of the case could take several years.
http://www.icj-cij.org/icjwww/idocket/iau/iauframe.htm
Cuba's National Assembly president Ricardo Alarcon warned dissidents
of consequences if they conspired with the US by accepting funds from
the Commission for Assistance to a Free Cuba. The Bush administration
has approved funding of $80 million to " support the Cuban people
as they transition from the repressive control of the Castro regime to
freedom and a genuine democracy".
http://www.plenglish.com/article.asp?ID=%7BECD70271-0340-40BD-A6B8-4FD7411900E0%7D)&language=EN
http://www.miami.com/mld/miamiherald/news/world/cuba/15006235.htm
http://www.state.gov/p/wha/rt/cuba/
http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/07/20060710.html
On the occasion of former Haitian President Jean-Bertrand Aristide's
birthday (15 July 1953) thousands of his supporters took to the streets
to demand his return. Three UN peacekeepers were injured.
In Mexico, narrowly defeated presidential candidate Andrew Manual Lopez
Obrador has filed a legal challenge, charging fraud and electoral irregularities
before and during the election. Although a full recount was requested,
it is not supported under Mexican law, although partial results by polling
booth can be reviewed. The Federal Electoral Institute and EU observers
failed to detect any irregularities. The Federal Electoral Tribunal will
review the complaints. A winner must be declared by 6 September.
The US House Committee on Government Reform Subcommittee on National
Security, Emerging Threats and International Relations, held a hearing
on "The Evolving National Strategy for Victory in Iraq". Testimony
focused on a Government Accountability Office report, "Rebuilding
Iraq: More Comprehensive National Strategy Needed to Help Achieve U.S.
Goals", and official responses to its findings.
http://reform.house.gov/NSETIR/Hearings/EventSingle.aspx?EventID=46791
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-06-788
Former CIA agent Valerie Plame and her husband, Ambassador Joseph Wilson,
have filed suit against Vice President Dick Cheney, and other senior
officials. The suit charges "intentional and malicious exposure
by senior officials of the federal government of…Valerie Plame
Wilson, whose job it was to gather intelligence to make the nation safer,
and who risked her life for her country". This case follows the
deliberate leaking of Plame's identity after her husband had criticized
intelligence prior to the invasion of Iraq.
http://news.findlaw.com/hdocs/docs/iraq/wilsonlibby71306cmp.html
Washington DC Police Chief Charles Ramsey has declared a "crime
emergency" to combat a recent sharp increase in crime.
http://app.mpdc.dc.gov/newsroom/newsroom.asp
--------------------------------------------------
PRM Asia Pacific
--------------------------------------------------
China's Communist Party expelled 44,738 members last year for failing
to meet party standards.
http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2006-07/13/content_640204.htm
East Timor's Prime Minister Jose Ramos-Horta's new Cabinet has been sworn
in, marking further progress to renewed stability after three months
of unrest. Alleged hit squad leader Vincente da Concecao and his men
surrendered their weapons, a step that will both help maintain peace
and provide evidence in connection with claims that former Prime Minister
Mari Alkatiri had ordered the former interior minister to arm the group
and attack political rivals.
Indonesia's parliament passed the Aceh autonomy law required under the
2005 peace agreement. Former Free Aceh Movement (GAM) rebels believe
the law falls short of what the government promised, by maintaining current
laws and maintaining government control over natural resources. Government
opponents object to offering any concessions to GAM, and there was a
general strike on Tuesday to protest. None of these objections are likely
to disrupt the peace process.
Kyrgyzstan has agreed to extend the US lease on the Manas airbase, which
is used for many US operations in Afghanistan. The US will provide a
$150 million aid package. Meanwhile, two US diplomats were expelled for
their contacts with non-governmental organizations.
http://www.president.kg/press/news/1327/ (in
Russian)
Malaysia and Thailand have agreed to cooperate to solve the problem of
dual nationality, which seems to have been exploited by separatists.
Malaysia is also launching a new operation to deport some half a million
illegal migrants - about two percent of the population.
The Solomon Islands have set up a commission to investigate the April
riots by opponents of the election of Snyder Rini as Prime Minister.
http://www.abc.net.au/news/newsitems/200607/s1687181.htm
Thailand's Attorney General completed an investigation into alleged electoral
fraud against both the governing Thai Rak Thai party and the opposition
Democrats, and has recommended legal action to the Constitutional Court,
which has accepted the case. Three smaller parties also face charges.
The trial could lead to the dissolution of both parties, and may delay
new elections scheduled for October.
--------------------------------------------------
PRM Europe
--------------------------------------------------
Belarus opposition leader Alexander Kozulin has been sentenced to 5.5
years in prison for hooliganism and incitement to mass disorder for his
role in post-election protests.
Bulgaria recalled its ambassador to Finland for engaging in the illegal
sale of embassy alcohol.
Cyprus's Greek and Turkish community leaders have agreed to proceed with
technical talks to address the daily lives of people on both sides of
the divided island. Tassos Papadopoulos and Mehmet Ali Talat also agreed
to broad principles under which the next diplomatic steps can be taken.
http://www.ana.gr/anaweb/user/showplain?maindoc=4422341&maindocimg=4031662&service=6
http://www.turkishpress.com/news.asp?id=132922
Polish President Lech Kaczynski has sworn in the new Prime Minister,
his twin brother, Jaroslaw.
Six former Serbian officials have gone on trial in the International
War Crimes Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia over actions of Serb troops
in Kosovo in 1999. The former officials (Milan Milutinovic (Serbian President),
Nikola Sainovic (deputy Prime Minister of Yugoslavia), Dragoljub
Ojdanic (army chief of staff), Nebojsa Pavkovic (Kosovo army commander),
Vladimir Lazarevic (Pristina Corps commander), and Sreten Lukic (Kosovo
police chief) are charged with murder, persecution, and deportation of
ethnic Albanians.
http://www.un.org/icty/
Ukraine parliamentarians are attempting to resolve another political
crisis that may force new elections. On the verge of forming an Orange
alliance, the Socialist party broke from the other two pro-Western parties
to join Victor Yanukovych's Party of the Regions and the Communist Party.
President Yushchenko has rejected a proposal to appoint Yanukovych Prime
Minister.
A British mosque has closed following a racial attack against its Imam,
Awad Kareem.
--------------------------------------------------
PRM Middle East
--------------------------------------------------
Failed decades of Middle East policy are clearly illustrated this week
in the reactions to the growing regional crisis. The festering disputes
over Iran's nuclear program, the movement towards civil war in Iraq,
and Israel's decision to wage war on two fronts against Palestinians
and Lebanese have led to finger-pointing towards Iran and Syria. Attempting
to move the focus to Iran and Syria by accusing them of responsibility
for the conflicts by supporting terrorists will neither achieve Israel's
goals nor address the deep, long-standing grievances on all sides, and
the complex interrelations among Iran, Syria, Lebanon, and non-state
actors. The Middle East "Quartet" (US, EU, Russia, UN) has
virtually abandoned diplomatic efforts including the "roadmap",
at a time when practical diplomacy and a channel for dispute resolution
is sorely needed. The Arab League has warned against further escalation,
says the peace process is dead and has called for UN intervention. Increasingly,
world governments are protesting a massively disproportionate response,
and struggling to find a way to separate terrorist attacks and military
response from long-standing complaints rooted in decades of neglect and
the unresolved issue of Palestine. Lebanon has been left once again in
the role of a battleground for other people's conflicts. Many observers
have commented on the perfect storm of crises and the doomsday scenarios
of regional fragmentation and a third world war. (See GTM/Middle East,
above)
Foreign Policy in Focus (FPIF) released three policy briefs addressing
key Middle East issues:
"The Alleged Destabilizing Iranian Role in Iraq"
http://fpif.org/fpiftxt/3342
"A Unilateral Ride over the Edge?" (Gaza)
http://fpif.org/fpiftxt/3348
"The Iraqi Civil Conflict: Another Reason for Bringing the Troops
Home"
http://fpif.org/fpiftxt/3359
Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad warned that they would respond
to any attack on Syria, which would be considered an attack against all
of Islam.
Following the extraordinary sectarian violence last weekend, Sunni politicians
called for a UN peacekeeping force in Iraq to replace US-led occupation
forces that cannot protect Iraqis. U.S. General George Casey Jr. suggests
that more troops may be needed in Baghdad.
Kuwait's ruling emir has approved a new cabinet dominated again by his
own family. The cabinet has approved a major electoral reform to reduce
the number of parliamentary constituencies from 25 to five. Previously
an attempt to move from 25 to 10 sparked opposition protests that led
to the dissolution of parliament and a win for the opposition in May
elections.
Lebanese Prime Minister Fouad Seniora has made a desperate, emotional
plea for a ceasefire and a UN-supervised truce to end the destruction
of the country. International response at this time has focused on how
to evacuate their nationals.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/5184134.stm
Saudi Arabia is disputing a United Arab Emirates (UAE) undersea pipeline
project that crosses Saudi territory.
UAE is moving ten percent of its foreign exchange reserves from the dollar
to the euro.
Yemen President Ali Abdullah Saleh completed his visit to Libya, where
he joined Colonel Muammar Gaddafi in an appeal to the international community
to stop Israeli strikes on Palestinian territories and protect the Palestinian
people.
--------------------------------------------------
PRM South Asia
--------------------------------------------------
Afghanistan President Karzai has launched an inquiry into an airstrike
in which a number of civilians may have been killed. In southern Afghanistan
at lease 600 of the 1100 fatalities this year have been civilians. Meanwhile,
Afghanistan's Ministry for Religious Affairs has recommended re-establishing
the Department for the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice,
which terrorized the population under the Taleban.
The UK believes that the Taleban resurgence can be attributed to too
few troops. They are sending additional forces and believe that the expanded
alliance can reverse the trend.
In India's Maharashtra state, about 35 farmers have committed suicide.
The announced federal aid package has not yet reached the poverty-stricken
population, and little of the assistance provides immediate relief. Most
of the projects announced will take 3-5 years to complete.
India has paused the peace process with Pakistan following suggestions
that those responsible for the Mumbai explosions (that killed at least
223 and injured more than 700) may have connections in Pakistan. Prime
Minister Singh said Pakistan must end support for terrorism before normalization
and peace can move forward.
Pakistan-administered Kashmir held legislative assembly elections. The
ruling Muslim Conference party took 20 of 41 seats, and is set to form
a coalition government. There are reports of multiple election irregularities.
None of the militant Islamic candidates won.
http://www.paktribune.com/news/index.php?id=149631
http://www.thepeninsulaqatar.com/Display_news.asp?section=World_News&subsection=Pakistan+%26+Sub-Continent&month=July2006&file=World_News20060714151841.xml
The AML/CFT Monitor is a monthly 16-page print publication. News highlights
from the past week are provided in this free email update, but detailed
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TAMNI
Publications
--------------------------------------------------
AML/CFT Incidents/Cases
--------------------------------------------------
Alan Drazek has been sentenced in US court to two months in prison, two
years probation, 200 hours of community service, and a $15,000 fine for
his role in a tax fraud that stemmed from his laundering nearly $400,000
through his direct mail company. The republican political consultant did
this as a favor to lobbyist Donald Udstuen, a close associate of Illinois
Governor Ryan.
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/custom/newsroom/chi-060712drazek,1,1580010.story?
A family of travelers (gypsies) was sentenced in English court to prison
terms and other punishments for crimes associated with money laundering
operations involving nearly GBP 1 million.
http://www.harboroughtoday.co.uk/ViewArticle2.aspx?SectionID=760&ArticleID=1625111
Animal dealer C.C. Baird and his wife were sentenced to probation and fines
amounting to more than $1 million following their conviction for money
laundering related to sale of dogs and cats to research facilities.
http://www.semissourian.com/story/1160388.html
Federal authorities in California have blocked the sale of three condominiums
tied to Lorenzo Arce Flores, recently designated under the Foreign Narcotics
Kingpin Act (see below).
http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/metro/20060714-9999-7m14launder.html
Jean-Cyril Spinetta, the CEO of air France-KLM, is being questioned in
France as part of an investigation into alleged money laundering and illegal
employment practices.
http://www.forbes.com/2006/07/12/spinetta-air-france-cx_cn_0712autofacescan06.html
--------------------------------------------------
AML/CFT Legislation and Regulation
--------------------------------------------------
The EU's Court of First Instance has clarified the rights of individuals
whose funds have been frozen in connection with the fight against international
terrorism. It provides for judicial rule before national courts and calls
for Member States to:
* Ensure so far as possible that the persons concerned are put in a position
to argue their point of view effectively before the competent national
authorities;
* Not refuse to initiate the review procedure solely because the persons
concerned could not provide precise and relevant information, owing to
their having been unable to ascertain the precise reasons for which they
were included in the list in question, on account of the confidential nature
of those reasons; and
* Be bound to act promptly in order to ensure that such persons’ cases
are presented without delay and fairly and impartially to the Sanctions
Committee, if that appears to be justified in the light of the relevant
information supplied.
http://www.europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=CJE/06/57&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en
Australia has released a revised exposure draft of the anti-money laundering
and counter-terrorist financing bill for public comment. The current version
reflects suggestions from the superannuation sector, to implement customer
identification requirements on payout from a fund rather than up front.
http://www.ag.gov.au/agd/WWW/justiceministerHome.nsf/Page/Media_Releases_2006_3rd_Quarter_13_July_2006_-_Revised_exposure_draft_of_anti-money__laundering_and_counter-terrorist_financing_Bill__released_for_public_comment
Cambodia's cabinet endorsed proposed AML/CFT legislation and approved a
draft counterterrorism bill.
http://www.philstar.com/philstar/NEWS_FLASH07162006313_7.htm
Indonesia's Financial Transaction Reports Analysis Center (PPATK) has proposed
amending the 2003 Money Laundering Law to give PPATK the power to sanction
entities that fail to report suspicious transactions.
http://www.thejakartapost.com/yesterdaydetail.asp?fileid=20060711.L01
http://www.ppatk.go.id/
Financial Services Ireland (FSI), an industry group, warned that the absence
of a national identity card system puts Ireland at a major disadvantage
in fighting organized crime and terrorist financing.
http://www.ibec.ie/ibec/press/presspublicationsdoclib3.nsf/wvPCSN/E78787126012E526802571AA00385415?OpenDocument
The State Bank of Pakistan has issued changes to AML regulations to better
comply with FATF recommendations, including stronger Know Your Customer
rules and more rigorous suspicious transaction investigation and reporting,
particularly in any case that may be associated with terrorist financing.
http://www.sbp.org.pk/bpd/2006/C5.htm
Swaziland's Anti-Corruption Act has come into force, permitting the Anti-Corruption
Unit to seize assets illegally acquired through bribery or kickbacks, and
includes penalties for those offering bribes. The law will be enforced
following a public education campaign.
http://www.irinnews.org/report.asp?ReportID=54618
The Bank of England has added Dragan Zelenovic to the list of those subject
to financial sanctions against individuals indicted by the International
Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia.
http://www.bankofengland.co.uk/publications/news/2006/074.htm
HM Revenue and Customs has released a leaflet providing AML advice to money
transmitters and bureau de change. It is available n English, Bengali,
Farsi, Hindi, Punjabi, Spanish, and Urdu.
http://customs.hmrc.gov.uk/channelsPortalWebApp/channelsPortalWebApp.portal?_nfpb=true&_pageLabel=pageVAT_ShowContent&propertyType=document&id=HMCE_PROD1_025708
A joint assessment of United States' AML/CFT standards by the Financial
Action Task Force (FATF) and the Asia Pacific Group (APG) found:
* The US has a comprehensive legal and institutional framework for investigating
and prosecuting money laundering and terrorist financing offenses.
* The US vigorously pursues, seizes and confiscates the assets of criminals
involved in money-laundering and terrorist financing.
* The US has an effective regulatory and supervisory framework for monitoring
compliance with AML/CFT measures and has imposed severe financial penalties
on financial institutions that do not comply with the measures.
* Customer identification requirements apply to most types of financial
institutions; however, these could be strengthened, particularly in relation
to the identification of beneficial owners.
* AML/CFT measures presently apply to a broad range of financial institutions;
however, the FATF recommends that comprehensive AML/CFT measures should
also apply to a wider range of non-financial businesses and professions.
* Company formation procedures and reporting requirements are such that
the information on beneficial ownership of legal persons may not, in most
instances, be adequate, accurate or available on a timely basis.
http://www.fatf-gafi.org/dataoecd/44/12/37101706.pdf (summary)
http://www.fatf-gafi.org/dataoecd/44/9/37101772.pdf (report)
http://www.fatf-gafi.org/dataoecd/44/11/37101744.pdf (annexes)
The US Treasury Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) identified 34 companies
and individuals associated with two Mexican drug cartels, the Arellano
Felix Organization and the Arriola Marquez Organization, pursuant to the
Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Designation Act (Kingpin Act). OFAC states that
under the leadership of Lorenzo Arce Flores, this financial network uses
money services businesses and other front companies in Mexico to launder
drug monies.
http://www.treas.gov/press/releases/hp08.htm
The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) took action regarding
two Latvian banks. In the case of Multibanka, FinCEN withdrew its April
2005 finding that Multibanka was a financial institution of primary money
laundering concern and also withdrew the notice of proposed rulemaking
against Multibanka. The second action involved VEF Banka. In this case,
FinCEN issued a final rule which imposed a special measure against VEF
Banka as an institution of primary money laundering concern, thereby prohibiting
US financial institutions from opening or maintaining correspondent accounts
for or on their behalf. FinCEN determined that VEF was a banking resource
for illicit shell companies in financial fraud rings, permitting ATM withdrawals
in significant amounts, which is an essential component of the execution
of large financial fraud schemes. Although VEF has revised its policies
and procedures, closed approximately 600 questionable accounts, and changed
its management, reported links between VEF owners and organized crime groups
continue to raise concern.
http://www.fincen.gov/latvia_311_withdraw.html
http://www.fincen.gov/311multibanka070706.pdf
http://www.fincen.gov/vef_final_rule_070706.pdf"
FinCEN announced the termination of the unsuccessful Bank Secrecy Act (BSA)
Direct Retrieval and Sharing Component project.
http://www.fincen.gov/bsa_direct_nr.html
http://www.fincen.gov/bsa_direct_report_071306.pdf"
The Office of Thrift Supervision (OTS) announced an industry-wide conference
call on "BSA/AML - Getting it Right", to provide information
on best practices, common violations, and consequences of noncompliance
to the BSA and AML regulations.
http://www.ots.treas.gov/docs/7/776030.html
Note the Congressional Research Service report, "Treasury's Terrorist
Finance Program's Access to Information Held by the Society for Worldwide
Interbank Financial Telecommunication (SWIFT)".
http://www.fas.org/sgp/crs/natsec/RS22469.pdf
The State of Nevada's Gaming Control Board is considering repealing the
state AML Regulation 6A, to instead comply with the more stringent Patriot
Act and FinCEN regulations.
http://www.casinocitytimes.com/news/article.cfm?contentID=159735
http://gaming.nv.gov/
The Florida International Bankers Association (FIBA) trade association
has launched the FIBA Anti-Money Laundering Institute to focus on special
training for higher risk business and international transactions.
http://www.fiba.net/index.cfm/id/234.html
--------------------------------------------------
AML/CFT Modalities
--------------------------------------------------
Canadian troops in Afghanistan were able to confirm the connection between
the drug trade and financing of Taleban activities, when they found evidence
including about $3 million in opium, inside the Taleban compound they were
battling.
http://www.canada.com/topics/news/story.html?id=34814976-7f4f-40f3-870e-a25c0f427920&k=97691
Afghan President Karzai has urged people to replace their poppy crops with
pomegranates, but a kilo of dry opium fetches about $140 while a kilo of
pomegranates garners only between .50 and $2.
http://www.dailystar.com.lb/article.asp?edition_id=10&categ_id=2&article_id=73948
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subscribing. Subscriptions to Emerging Threat Monitor can be purchased
at our online store:
TAMNI
Publications
--------------------------------------------------
ETM Corruption and Transnational Crime
--------------------------------------------------
Some two dozen Egyptian newspapers suspended publication on Sunday to protest
a draft law that makes it a crime punishable by prison to question the
financial integrity of an individual. Journalists say this will prevent
investigations into corruption.
Insider trading charges against Taiwan President Chen Shui-Bian's son-in-law,
Chao Chien-ming have further undermined Chen's political standing. These
charges join prior scandals involving Chen's family and close allies. In
June, more than half of the legislature backed a recall motion, but fell
short of the two-thirds majority required to pass.
Tongsun Park has become the first person convicted of criminal charges
in connection with Iraq's oil-for-food program. The South Korean businessman
was found guilty in US court of conspiracy, and sentencing was scheduled
for 26 October.
http://times.hankooki.com/lpage/nation/200607/kt2006071418395911990.htm
http://www.tongsunpark.com/
Swaziland's King Mswati III has signed the law putting into force a government
Anti-Corruption Unit, ten years after it was established.
http://www.irinnews.org/report.asp?ReportID=54618
The UK "cash for peerages" scandal has reached a new level with
the arrest of Lord Levy, the Labor party's chief fundraiser, Middle East
envoy, and close friend of Prime Minister Blair. As the investigation proceeds,
at least two Ministers and politicians from multiple parties are being
questioned, as suspects and as potential witnesses.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/politics/4812822.stm
http://politics.guardian.co.uk/funding/story/0,,1820055,00.html
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,59-2269187,00.html
The UK Department for International Development issued a new white paper, "Making
Governance Work for the Poor". Key points include:
* Delivering the promises made in 2005
* Putting governance at the center of our work
* Increase our effort to help people have security, incomes through growth
and public services, committing 50 percent of all future bilateral aid
to public services for poor people
* Working internationally to tackle climate change
* Helping create a 21st century international system with more effective
international bodies
http://www.dfid.gov.uk/wp2006/default.asp
--------------------------------------------------
ETM Economies and Financial Systems
--------------------------------------------------
World Trade Organization (WTO) members have approved a new transparency
mechanism under which regional trade agreements can be assessed early to
see if they are consistent with WTO rules, helping speed assessment and
reduce the current approvals backlog.
http://www.wto.org/english/news_e/news06_e/rta_july06_e.htm
Russia and the US failed to agree on terms for Russia to join the WTO.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/5183892.stm
The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) has invited
public comment on draft guidelines to help governments and regulators improve
the funding and benefit security of pensions, part of a broader effort
to restore public confidence in pensions.
http://www.oecd.org/document/3/0,2340,en_2649_34853_37083779_1_1_1_1,00.html
Vietnam's stock market valuation increased by nearly 50 percent following
the listing of its first bank, Saigon Commercial Bank (Sacombank). With
a market capitalization of nearly $1 billion, it is the largest company
on the exchange.
http://vietnamnews.vnagency.com.vn/showarticle.php?num=01BAN130706
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601087&sid=aH31vQii2KtU
http://www.sacombank.com/
--------------------------------------------------
ETM Environment and Climate Change
--------------------------------------------------
15 July is the International Day of Direct Action Against Climate Change.
http://www.climateimc.org/?q=node/493
The US Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, Subcommittee on
Clear Air, Climate Change and Nuclear Safety, held a hearing on the Environmental
Protection Agency's proposed revisions to particulate matter air quality
standards.
http://epw.senate.gov/hearing_statements.cfm?id=258490
http://www.epa.gov/pmresearch/
Republican committee members took an opportunity to criticize recent documentaries
on global warming.
http://www.cbsnews.com/blogs/2006/07/13/publiceye/entry1799623.shtml
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601088&sid=aioxPLZizTeg
Scottish environmentalists warned of threats to Firth of Forth wildlife
while oil is transferred from smaller tankers to a supertanker for onward
shipment
http://news.scotsman.com/index.cfm?id=1028982006
http://www.mcga.gov.uk/c4mca/mcga-newsroom/mcga-press-releases.htm?id=BB4ADD8240095F5D&m=7&y=2006
Tara Arctic 2007 is a 2-year scientific expedition investigating the impact
of climate change in the Arctic.
http://www.unep.org/Documents.Multilingual/Default.asp?DocumentID=483&ArticleID=5310&l=en
--------------------------------------------------
ETM Human Rights
--------------------------------------------------
The US state of Ohio has executed Rocky Barton under new guidelines for
lethal injection.
http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060713/NEWS01/607130347/1077
http://www.drc.state.oh.us/Public/press246.htm
Australia's Ministerial Council on Immigration and Multicultural Affairs
held their annual meeting. One of the topics discussed was the use of racial
descriptions by police, such as "of Middle Eastern appearance".
The current application of such descriptors will be subject to an independent
review.
http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/which-faces-fit-middle-east-tag/2006/07/14/1152637872158.html
The UN has published a strategy for review, which would address exploitation
and abuse by UN staff and related personnel.
http://www.un.org/Docs/journal/asp/ws.asp?m=A/60/
--------------------------------------------------
ETM Infectious Diseases
--------------------------------------------------
As of 14 July, there have been 230 confirmed cases of human H5N1 avian
influenza, of which 132 have died. Indonesia confirmed that a child who
died last week was the 41st H5N1 victim in the country, in which there
have been 53 cases in total.
http://www.who.int/csr/disease/avian_influenza/country/cases_table_2006_07_14/en/index.html
http://www.who.int/csr/don/2006_07_14/en/index.html
Avian influenza is being controlled in Western Europe and in Southeast
Asia apart from Indonesia, but is still expanding in Africa, presenting
a threat that will remain for many years. Africa faces particular difficulties
in enforcing control measures and addressing the illegal poultry trade.
http://www.fao.org/newsroom/en/news/2006/1000359/index.html
Following the New England Journal of Medicine letter in which Chinese scientists
reported a case of avian influenza in 2003, China's Ministry of Health
has contacted the scientists and is investigating the matter.
http://english.people.com.cn//200607/10/eng20060710_281704.html
--------------------------------------------------
ETM Populations
--------------------------------------------------
European and African countries held an emergency meeting to address growing
levels of illegal immigration. Representatives of 57 countries agreed to
closely coordinate and collaborate, to establish a tracking system, to
increase awareness of the dangers of illegal migration, and to offer incentives
such as financial support and employment. Human trafficking networks will
also be targeted.
http://www.unhcr.org/cgi-bin/texis/vtx/news/opendoc.htm?tbl=NEWS&id=44b513f76
http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs//2006/dsgsm291.doc.htm
http://www.un.org/events/tenstories_2006/story.asp?storyID=2200
The Happy Planet Index surveyed 178 nations, evaluating consumption levels,
life expectancy, and happiness rather than national economic wealth. The
index concludes that Vanuatu is the happiest nation, followed by several
south and central American countries. G8 countries scored poorly, with
Italy 66th, Germany 81st, Japan 95th, UK 108th, Canada 111th, France 129th,
US 150th, and Russia 172nd. The report says that "Islands perform
well. Perhaps a more acute awareness of environmental limits has sometimes
helped their societies to bond better and to adapt to get more from less.
Combined with the enhanced well-being that stems from close contact with
nature, the world as a whole stands to learn much from the experience of
islands".
http://www.happyplanetindex.org
Also note, "What's so great about living in Vanuatu?"
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2hi/uk_news/magazine/5172254.stm
South Africa's investment in subsidized housing is no closer to overcoming
shortages. In its place the pace of homelessness and informal settlement
continues to increase.
http://www.irinnews.org/report.asp?ReportID=54511
World Population Day was marked on 11 July.
http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs/2006/sgsm10553.doc.htm"
http://www.unfpa.org/news/news.cfm?ID=821
--------------------------------------------------
ETM Technology
--------------------------------------------------
The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) has released
proposed new Guidelines for Quality Assurance in molecular Genetic Testing
for public comment.
http://www.oecd.org/sti/biotechnology/qualityassurance
Diamond Light Source, the largest scientific facility built in the UK for
30 years, has produced its first "synchotron" light beam that
will launch a series of breakthrough physics experiments.
http://www.diamond.ac.uk/default.htm
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi//science/nature/5178034.stm
The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) has launched
the Program in Systems Immunology and Infectious Disease Modeling (PSIIM),
which uses computational systems biology to better understand the complex
biochemical networks that regulate the interactions between infectious
organisms and the human or animal cells they infect.
http://www3.niaid.nih.gov/news/newsreleases/2006/systemsbio.htm
Freescale has unveiled a magnetoresistive random-access memory (MRAM) chip
that can store data as a hard disc does.
http://www.freescale.com/webapp/sps/site/overview.jsp?nodeId=015424&tid=FSH
http://www.mram-info.com/
--------------------------------------------------
ETM Weapons (WMD, Proliferation)
--------------------------------------------------
There have been no advances in diplomatic efforts to resolve disagreements
over the nuclear program in Iran.
North Korea has rejected a unanimous UN Security Council resolution that
imposes limited sanctions in response to its recent missile tests, bans
all trade in weapons material or technology, and demands suspension of
the ballistic missile program. North Korea says it will instead expand
its weapons programs.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=19211&Cr=Korea&Cr1=
Interpol held a workshop for the American on Preventing Bioterrorism. 78
delegates from 26 countries committed to measures including:
* regular threat and risk assessments to be made through the sharing of
information between health, medical and law enforcement agencies
* creation or development of appropriate national legislation, inter-agency
protocols, joint working procedures, early warning systems, equipment and
regular training
* enabling of the implementation of necessary measures to prevent, respond
to and investigate bioterrorism.
http://www.interpol.int/Public/BioTerrorism/Workshops/ChileJuly2006/default.asp
An historical case of proposed bioterrorism has been found in a letter
from US General George Washington written to John Hancock in 1775, discussing
the threat of smallpox.
http://www.usnews.com/usnews/news/articles/060716/16gw_eye.htm
The UK Ministry of Defense published The Historical Survey of the Porton
Down Service Volunteer Programme 1939-1989. The chemical weapons testing
it documents included a small number of tests that involved serious departures
from ethical standards.
http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/DefenceNews/DefencePolicyAndBusiness/ModPublishesPortonDownVolunteersHistoricalSurvey.htm
Papua New Guinea has established a Chemical Weapons Convention National
Authority, under the Department of Foreign Affairs.
http://www.opcw.org/pressreleases/2006/PR37_2006.html
5. Critical Infrastructure Monitor
Critical Infrastructure Monitor gives you the background and analysis
missing from these news briefings. Subscriptions can be purchased from
our online store:
TAMNI
Publications
--------------------------------------------------
CIM Banking and Finance
--------------------------------------------------
The European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) issued its annual report, which says
that in 2005 OLAF recovered EU203 million lost through fraud and other
irregularities, and is investigating 452 cases involving nearly EU2 billion.
http://ec.europa.eu/comm/anti_fraud/reports/index_en.html
In the UK fraud, error and overpayment costs the country some GBP1.7 billion
each year. HM Revenue and Customs explained measures it is taking to tackle
error and fraud in tax credits, including significant improvements to its
IT systems.
http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/about/random-enquiry.pdf">Child
and Working Tax Credit error
http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/about/error-and-fraud.pdf
The US Securities and Exchange Commission has published a Concept Release
in advance of guidance for management in assessing internal controls for
financial reporting, and addressing ways to mitigate compliance costs.
http://www.sec.gov/news/press/2006/2006-112.htm
The US House of Representatives voted to approve HR2990, the Credit Rating
Agency Duopoly Relief Act of 2006, which would make the credit rating industry
more transparent and competitive, and subject to greater oversight.
http://financialservices.house.gov/news.asp?FormMode=release&id=834&NewsType=1
The Financial Services held oversight hearings on diversity and industrial
loan corporations, and the terror finance tracking program.
http://financialservices.house.gov/hearings.asp?formmode=All&congress=11
--------------------------------------------------
CIM Chemical
--------------------------------------------------
A leaky pipe in a chemical factory sent toxic chlorine fumes through the
town of Yinchuan in northwestern China, hospitalizing 164 people, in a
population of 210,000.
The State Environmental Protection Administration (SEPA) warns that nearly
half of China's chemical plants pose serious risks of major environmental
harm unless effective safety measures are taken. The chlorine gas leak
is just one example of far too many cases of poor construction or maintenance
that are increasingly posing threats to rivers, lakes, and densely populated
areas.
http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2006-07/11/content_4818672.htm
http://www.zhb.gov.cn/
--------------------------------------------------
CIM Cybersecurity
--------------------------------------------------
Microsoft's latest security update includes five patches for critical vulnerabilities.
http://www.microsoft.com/technet/security/bulletin/ms06-jul.mspx
http://www.us-cert.gov/cas/techalerts/TA06-192A.html
http://www.microsoft.com/technet/security/bulletin/ms06-036.mspx
http://www.microsoft.com/technet/security/bulletin/ms06-035.mspx
The US Department of State was subjected to a large-scale break-in involving
backdoors in computers at headquarters and offices dealing with Asia. Recovery
and investigation are ongoing.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/07/11/AR2006071101032.html
The US Department of Veterans Affairs' Inspector General issued " Review
of Issues Related to the Loss of VA Information Involving the Identity
of Millions of Veterans". The report is highly critical of management
and information security policies and operations that led to the loss of
personal data of more than 26 million veterans, and slow notification and
recovery.
http://www.va.gov/oig/51/FY2006rpts/VAOIG-06-02238-163.pdf
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/07/13/AR2006071301609.html
A recent fraud demonstrates ways phishers are circumventing two-factor
authentication.
http://blog.washingtonpost.com/securityfix/2006/07/citibank_phish_spoofs_2factor_1.html
http://www.schneier.com/crypto-gram-0503.html#2
Cornell University researchers with the Global Positioning System Laboratory
have broken the codes used by Europe's Galileo navigation satellite.
http://www.news.cornell.edu/stories/July06/GPS.code.cracked.TO.html
Stephen Pincock writes in The Scientist of how "Biology fights computer
viruses", modeling defenses after animal immune systems in a crowded
environment.
http://www.the-scientist.com/article/daily/23794/
UK Information Commissioner Richard Thomas released his annual report,
calling for personal data to be protected lest public trust be damaged
by the huge costs of getting details wrong, confused, or outdated. He also
warned that just because technology can enable data sharing does not mean
that it should be. Carelessness has led to fraud and even mistaken criminal
cases. Guidance on transferring personal data abroad was also released.
http://www.ico.gov.uk/cms/DocumentUploads/share_data_properly_or_risk_losing_public_confidence_13070.pdf
http://www.ico.gov.uk/cms/DocumentUploads/Guidance_issued_on_transferring_personal_information_overseas_100706.pdf
Memoranda obtained from the Times (London) suggest that the UK Identity
Card scheme is likely to fail. The Home Office denies the plan will be
scrapped, but reports suggest it is likely to face alterations or delays.
Identity cards were not included in the new counterterrorism strategy (GTM/Europe,
above).
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,2087-2261631,00.html
http://www.identitycards.gov.uk/index.asp
--------------------------------------------------
CIM Dams
--------------------------------------------------
In Iraq, there is a special US Marine unit that focuses on dam protection:
the Dam Security Unit.
http://www.usmc.mil/marinelink/mcn2000.nsf/0/AADB459ECBA68BC7852571A400360C32?opendocument
Israeli targets in Lebanon included the Barad river dam, as well as many
bridges. The damage has been extensive.
A dam security guard in Thailand's southern Yala province was shot dead
by militants, who also stole his pistol. The dam was unharmed.
--------------------------------------------------
CIM Defense Industrial Base
--------------------------------------------------
The UK Ministry of Defence and Swan Hunter have agreed to end a Tyneside
ship building contract, which will now be transferred to BAE Systems in
Scotland.
http://www.mod.uk/defenceinternet/defencenews/presscentre/pressreleases/wayaheadonlsdaprogrammeannounced.htm
http://www.swanhunter.com/
The US Army has terminated Halliburton's lucrative logistics contract in
favor of splitting contracts among several companies, helping ensure better
prices, as well as more accountability and transparency.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/07/11/AR2006071101459_pf.html
http://www.halliburton.com/
http://www.afsc.army.mil/home/index.htm
The US Government Accountability Office (GAO) reviewed "Weapons Acquisition:
DOD Should Strengthen Policies for Assessing Technical Data Needs to Support
Weapon Systems".
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-06-839
--------------------------------------------------
CIM Emergency Services
--------------------------------------------------
Emergency responders in the US city of Cleveland, Ohio, have acquired a
new emergency vehicle that incorporates on-site identification of potential
biological or chemical agents.
http://www.cleveland.com/news/plaindealer/index.ssf?/base/cuyahoga/1152693074277600.xml&coll=2
http://www.mccrone.com/
A UK bill making its way through parliament would impose tough penalties
against those obstructing emergency services.
http://www.24dash.com/content/news/viewNews.php?navID=7&newsID=8152
--------------------------------------------------
CIM Energy
--------------------------------------------------
The G8 meeting plans to focus on energy and energy security. Other key
issues include combating infectious diseases, education and demography,
counterterrorism, and WMD proliferation. The unforeseen crisis in the Middle
East will likely have a major impact on the discussions.
http://en.g8russia.ru/
http://ec.europa.eu/commission_barroso/president/focus/g8_en.htm
A 19-nation poll finds that energy policies pose grave threats of harming
the Earth’s environment and climate, destabilizing the global economy,
and sparking conflict and wars:
* 81 percent are concerned about the impact current energy policy is having
on the Earth’s environment and climate.
* 77 percent express concern that energy shortages and prices will destabilize
the world economy and 73 percent that competition for energy will lead
to greater conflict and war between nations
* Strong majorities favor tax incentives to develop renewable energy supplies
and higher fuel efficiency standards for automobiles
* Just one-half favor nuclear energy to reduce reliance on oil and coal.
http://199.202.238.2/news_archives/bbcwsenergy/
China is the largest consumer of energy in the world after the US, and
every two years adds as much power generation capacity as the total in
France of Canada. Rapid growth has raised tensions with the needs for environmental
protection and greater equity. The International Energy Agency discusses
these issues in "China's Power Sector Reforms: Where to Next?"
http://www.iea.org/Textbase/press/pressdetail.asp?PRESS_REL_ID=183
The UK has published the conclusions of the Energy Review. Among proposals
are:
* New nuclear power stations
* Electricity companies increasing from 15 to 20 the percent generated
from renewables
* Storing carbon dioxide in old oil fields
* Energy efficiency incentives for homes and businesses
* Placing generators close to where power is used
http://www.dti.gov.uk/energy/review/index.html
The UK Commons Trade and Industry Select Committee suggested that the energy
review dialogue should continue and the government should not rush into
key policy decisions. The committee, which has issued reports on nuclear
power, suggests that it may be advisable to extend the life of some nuclear
plants rather than shut them down.
http://www.parliament.uk/parliamentary_committees/trade_and_industry.cfm
The US Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources held a hearing
regarding Geothermal Energy and other renewable energy production on federal
lands in western states. Among those testifying was a representative from
the Government Accountability Office (GAO), who addressed the findings
in the GAO report, "Renewable Energy: Increased Geothermal Development
Will Depend on Overcoming Many Challenges".
http://energy.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?FuseAction=Hearings.Hearing&Hearing_ID=1576
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-06-629
The Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline, which links Azerbaijan, Georgia and Turkey,
has been officially opened.
http://www.europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=MEMO/06/282&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en
--------------------------------------------------
CIM Information Technology
--------------------------------------------------
Colorado State University (US) researchers are working on models to predict
the likely flaws in the next version of a particular application or operating
system.
http://www.cs.colostate.edu/testing/
Microsoft has ended support for the Windows 98 operating system.
The European Commission has imposed a penalty payment of EU280.5 million
on Microsoft for continued non-compliance with its March 2004 competition
decision.
http://www.europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/979&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en
http://www.europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=MEMO/06/277&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en (FAQ)
--------------------------------------------------
CIM Nuclear Reactors, Materials, and Waste
--------------------------------------------------
"Securing the Bomb 2006 is a report commissioned by the Nuclear Threat
Initiative that warns, "Urgent actions are needed to prevent a nuclear
9/11. Terrorists are actively seeking nuclear weapons and the materials
to make them. With the needed nuclear materials in hand, making at least
a crude nuclear bomb, capable of turning the heart of any modern city into
a smoking ruin, is potentially within the capabilities of a sophisticated
terrorist group. Yet scores of sites where the essential ingredients of
nuclear weapons exist, in dozens of countries around the world, are clearly
not well enough secured to defeat the kinds of threats that terrorists
and criminals have demonstrated they can pose". The report goes on
to review securing stockpiles in the former Soviet Union and the rest of
the world, and provides recommendations to reduce the risks.
http://www.nti.org/e_research/stb06webfull.pdf
Russian President Putin and US President Bush have announced a global initiative
to combat nuclear terrorism.
http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/07/20060715-3.html
"Nuclear Cleanup of Rocky Flats: DOE Can Use Lessons Learned to Improve
Oversight Of Other Sites' Cleanup Activities" is a new report from
the US Government Accountability Office (GAO). GAO identified four factors
leading to clean-up of the former nuclear weapons production facility at
Rocky Flats: overcoming challenges, an accelerated cleaning process, specific
site characteristics, and financial incentives to the contractor. GAO recommended
that the Department of Energy systematically track lessons learned at all
of its cleanup sites.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-06-352
--------------------------------------------------
CIM Public Health and Healthcare
--------------------------------------------------
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a once-a-day, 3-drug
combination antiretroviral treatment for HIV-1.
http://www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/NEWS/2006/NEW01408.html
--------------------------------------------------
CIM Telecommunications
--------------------------------------------------
The European Commission has proposed a regulation that would introduce
the "European Home Market Approach" to telecommunication roaming
charges within EU member states. If adopted, the a cap on roaming charges
could cause the cost of making calls while traveling in the EU to fall
by up to 70 percent.
http://ec.europa.eu/commission_barroso/president/focus/roaming_en.htm
http://www.europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=CJE/06/59&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en
http://www.europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=MEMO/06/276&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en (FAQ)
US District Judge Emmet Sullivan wants to call new witnesses to examine
the Department of Justice's approval last October of SBC Communication's
acquisition of AT and T. and Verizon Communication's acquisition of MCI.
He said there are doubts that the deals are in the public interest.
http://www.computerworld.com/action/article.do?command=viewArticleBasic&articleId=9001743&source=NLT_PM&nlid=8
http://www.dcd.uscourts.gov/
India's launch of the INSAT-4C on Monday failed when the rocket carrying
it veered off course and exploded. The loss of the satellite was a blow
to both the space program (following an equally unsuccessful test-fire
of a nuclear-capable ballistic missile) and to the telephone, television,
and other business applications relying on the enhancements that would
have been made available through the satellite.
The world's two-billionth mobile phone user was connected earlier this
month, and new users are signing up at the rate of 1,000 per minute..
http://www.gsmworld.com/news/press_2006/press06_29.shtml
Computing Which? Studied free Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services,
finding useful features, but limitations that suggest the continued need
for a backup landline.
http://www.which.co.uk/press/press_topics/product_news/computing_which_magazine/dialling_over_the_internet_571_89148.jsp
--------------------------------------------------
CIM Transportation
--------------------------------------------------
Israel has destroyed the international airport in Lebanon and launched
a total blockade of Lebanese ports.
The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced a rule proposing
that DHS collect passenger information for flights and cruises bound for
the US prior to their departure.
http://www.dhs.gov/dhspublic/display?content=5735
Australia's air marshal program is struggling with an internal investigation
into accusations of preferential positions and other breaches of professional
standards.
http://www.news.com.au/story/0,10117,19768362-421,00.html
An incident in which a Canadian national was able to pass through airport
security checks has led to calls to tighten security at Indian airports.
Seven kilos of heroin escaped detection in a suitcase cavity that could
also have held an explosive or weapon.
http://www.hindustantimes.com/news/181_1745363,000600010001.htm
Panama's congress has approved a plan to widen the Panama Canal. A referendum
on the matter will be held later this year.
http://www.acp.gob.pa/
The US Subcommittee on Government Management, Finance, and Accountability,
House Committee on Government Reform held a hearing on "Securing Our
Ports: Information Sharing is Key to Effective Maritime Security".
Testimony found improvement, including an update to a prior Government
Accountability Office (GAO) report on the topic.
http://reform.house.gov/GMFA/Hearings/EventSingle.aspx?EventID=46675
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-05-394
Chittagong anchorage, Bangladesh remains subject to an International Maritime
Bureau piracy alert. The Barguna Trawler Owners' Association and the Workers'
Association report multiple cases of mass piracy n the Bay of Bengal, citing
injuries to some 80 fishermen and crew; abduction of 90; theft of 10 trawlers,
and other crimes in the past week. Hefty ransoms are demanded for ships,
cargo, and crew.
http://www.southasianmedia.net/cnn.cfm?id=308106&category=Law&Order&Country=BANGLADESH
http://www.thedailystar.net/2006/07/10/d60710061781.htm
http://www.icc-ccs.org/prc/piracyreport.php
Following the devastating rail explosions in Bombay (Mumbai), Rekha Chakravarthi,
with the Institute of Peace and Conflict Studies, explains why terrorists
target public transport systems: "... they present high concentrations
of people, and provide ample scope for large-scale destruction. Ensuring
effective security is difficult because of the high traffic volume. A large
number of access points with few or no inspection procedures compound security
problems. The lack of mandatory passenger identification for boarding these
systems also makes mass transit systems preferred targets when compared
with government or military facilities".
http://www.ipcs.org/whatsNewArticle1.jsp?action=showView&kValue=2084&status=article&mod=b
Australian rail passengers will no longer be locked inside trains after
a crash or terrorist attack. RailCorp had adopted this policy to protect
passengers from electric rails, but now plan to refit all carriage doors
to better protect passengers from new threats and in accordance with the
findings of the Waterfall accident inquiry.
http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/train-system-open-to-terrorist-attack/2006/07/13/1152637808194.html
http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/passengers-wont-be-locked-in--railcorp/2006/07/14/1152637872188.html
http://www.cityrail.info/general/waterfall.jsp
News highlights from the past week are provided in this free email update,
but detailed analysis, background information and source documents are
only available to subscribers. Disaster Reduction Monitor subscriptions
and other titles can be purchased here:
TAMNI
Publications
--------------------------------------------------
DRM Incidents
--------------------------------------------------
Typhoon Bilis has killed at least 115 people in southeastern Chine.
A Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) aging Fokker passenger plane crashed,
killing all 45 people on board. Preliminary analysis suggests a technical
fault caused engine failure, and has ruled out a terrorist attack. The
other planes in the fleet have been barred from passenger use and will
be limited to freight.
In northern Bangladesh, a train collided with a crowded bus at an unmanned
level crossing. At least 32 people were killed and 30 injured. An inquiry
is under way.
Heavy rains in the Punjab has killed at least 25 Pakistanis.
Landslides in western Nepal have killed at least 17 people, with 15 missing.
Local villagers, the Red Cross, and Maoist rebels are helping the rescue
operation.
Flooding in Chile have left at least 15 people dead, and many communities
cut off by mudslides.
Ten people are dead and 17 missing following flash floods and landslides
in South Korea.
Soaring temperatures have contributed to raging wildfires in at least six
locations in Portugal. In the Famalicao area, five Chileans employed to
aid the local fire brigade, and a local man died when the wind suddenly
changed and they were trapped in the fire.
The US state of California has declared a state of emergency in San Bernardino
county where two huge brush fires have merged, creating a raging wildfire.
One fatality has been found.
http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-yucca15jul15,1,3636644.story?coll=la-headlines-california
http://www.cnn.com/2006/US/07/15/wildfires.ap/
--------------------------------------------------
DRM Response and Recovery
--------------------------------------------------
The collapse of a roof section in Boston, Massachusetts "Big Dig" tunnel
system has been traced to compromised bolts or connector rods. Investigators
have sent out a national appeal to try to identify any other tunnels using
the same bolt-and-epoxy ceiling fasteners.
http://www.boston.com/news/traffic/bigdig/articles/2006/07/15/nationwide_search_begun_for_other_flawed_tunnels/
Entrepreneurial villagers affected by the devastating toxic mudflow that
followed a gas well leak have been using the mud to build bricks. The chemical
qualities of the toxic mud made them stronger, and production was less
expensive in part because the hot mud needs less firing.
http://www.thejakartapost.com/yesterdaydetail.asp?fileid=20060712.A06
Individual Disaster Assistance Programs: Framework for Fraud Prevention,
Detection, and Prosecution, by Gregory D. Kutz, managing director, forensic
audits and special investigations, before the Subcommittee on Management,
Integration, and Oversight, House Committee on Homeland Security. GAO-06-954T,
July 12.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-06-954T
The US Army Corps of Engineers and the Bush administration submitted to
Congress the Preliminary Technical Report on Louisiana Protection and Restoration.
Apart from saying it would be expensive and take a long time, it was short
on detail.
http://www.hq.usace.army.mil/cepa/releases/lacpr.htm
The Louisiana Insurance Commissioner has ordered property insurance providers
in the state to give homeowners and business owners an extended deadline,
to two years, to file lawsuits. Companies that do not grant the extension
could face penalties including fines and license revocation.
http://www.ldi.state.la.us/
--------------------------------------------------
DRM Risks
--------------------------------------------------
Philippines residents near Mayon volcano have evacuated as it began a slow
eruption.
Ecuador's Tungurahua volcano began releasing ash, gas, and magma at the
end of the week. Increasingly active since May, high risk villages are
being evacuated.
Colombia is urging residents at the foot of the Galeras volcano to evacuate,
following an explosion of rock and gas.
Indonesia has lowered the highest alert status for Mount Merapi after the
volcano's activity has declined.
--------------------------------------------------
DRM Mitigation
--------------------------------------------------
The Tsunami Evaluation Coalition has released its report, calling for a
fairer system of emergency funding. The report finds that emergency relief
is not given on the basis of need as much as in response to political pressure
and demands of the donating public. For the 2004 tsunami, a total of over
US $7,100 for every affected person was raised. In stark contrast, only
$3 per head was spent on someone affected by the 2004 floods in Bangladesh.
The report calls for independent monitoring to ensure funding is impartial,
flexible, transparent, and in line with the principles of Good Humanitarian
Donorship.
http://www.tsunami-evaluation.org/The+TEC+Synthesis+Report/Press+Release.htm
Only three buildings were left standing in the Indonesian village of Wonokromo
after the 27 May earthquake in Java. These three buildings were built following
earthquake resistance advice in a manual from Indonesian Islamic University's
Center for Earthquake Engineering, Dynamic Effect and Disaster Studies.
http://www.thejakartapost.com/yesterdaydetail.asp?fileid=20060714.S01
The UN has reached an agreement with Thuraya Satellite Telecommunications
Company to provide portable satellite terminals for rescue operations.
http://www.itu.int/newsroom/press_releases/2006/12.html
The Central Bank and Financial Services Authority of Ireland released "Business
Continuity Oversight Expectations for Systemically Important Payment Systems
(SIPS)".
http://www.centralbank.ie/frame_main.asp?pg=nws%5Farticle%2Easp%3Fid%3D199&nv=nws_nav.asp
Cover-ups and racist attacks are a contemporary reality, but as the number
and scale of such incidents have mounted around the world, one incident
in history helps place such cases in a broader context.
The Dreyfus Affair began in September 1894 when an anonymous note to the
German military attache in Paris was found. It appeared to implicate Captain
Alfred Dreyfus is leaking French military secrets. Because Captain Dreyfus
was the highest-ranking Jewish artillery officer in the army, military
authorities feared the wrath of a virulently anti-Semitic press and rushed
the case to trial. Although it quickly became clear there was little evidence
against Dreyfus, a court martial was rushed through, rife with procedural
errors, and false or secret evidence. Dreyfus was convicted of high treason
and sentenced to life in prison on Devil's Island, French Guiana. Soon
after, it became obvious that the responsible officials had made a catastrophic
error. The cover-up that followed involved at least eight generals and
other officers, including the actual criminal, Commandant Ferdinand Esterhazy,
whose guilt was established by 1896.
Dreyfus, his family and friends fought to expose the anti-Semitic conspiracy
that had driven the conviction, and prove Drayfus's innocence. The case
split society between liberal intellectuals and the conservative opposition
supported by the military and clergy.
On 13 January 1898, novelist Emile Zola published an open letter to French
President Felix Faure that was published in the L'Aurore newspaper. The
publication of "J'accuse" became a seminal event in the history
of journalism and a masterpiece of polemic writing against abusive authority.
Zola provided a detailed explanation of the case, revealed the cover-up,
disclosed the guilty party (who had since been tried and acquitted) and
went on to accuse each of the conspirators of their crimes. J'Accuse can
be found in collections of Zola's writings, or online here:
http://www.chameleon-translations.com/sample-Zola.shtml
Zola was charged with criminal libel. During the high-profile trial that
followed, the truth did come out, but it did not prevent Zola's conviction
(and subsequent personal ruin). It did however dramatically swing public
opinion and, in 1899 Dreyfus was given a second trial. Again he was convicted,
but was quickly pardoned and released. Only in 1906 was he formally cleared
of the charges, when France's highest court reversed the judgement. Dreyfus
was adjudged innocent, reinstated in the army, promoted, and awarded the
Legion of Honor.
The centenary of Dreyfus's exoneration was marked on 12 July, with ceremonies
to honor him and the principles of freedom and challenging authority that
represents the French republic today, and reminds us all of the need to
continue the fight against racism, anti-Semitism, and other hate crimes.
Coverage of the centennial commemoration can be found here:
http://www.elysee.fr/elysee/elysee.fr/francais/actualites/deplacements_en_france/2006/juillet/centieme_anniversaire_de_la_rehabilitation_d_alfred_dreyfus.55159.html (in
French)
http://tf1.lci.fr/infos/france/0,,3314263,00.html (in
French)
http://www.lemonde.fr/web/article/0,1-0@2-3224,36-792598,0.html?xtor=RSS-3224 (in
French)
http://www.mahj.org/gb/cadres/02_encemoment/c_expos.htm
http://www.justice.gouv.fr/musee/themes/detenus/34l.htm
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/5166904.stm
http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/story/0,,1819221,00.html
Books detailing the Dreyfus affair, its aftermath, and the historical context
include:
* Jean-Denis Bredin, "The Affair: The Case of Alfred Dreyfus" (Braziller)
* Michael Burns, "France and the Dreyfus Affair: A Brief Documentary
History"
* William I. Brustein, "Roots of Hate: Anti-Semitism in Europe Before
the Holocaust", Cambridge University Press
* Guy Chapman, "The Dreyfus Trials", (Stein and Day)
* Christopher E. Forth, "The Dreyfus Affair and the Crisis of French
Manhood", (Johns Hopkins University Press)
* Martin P. Johnson, "The Dreyfus Affair: Honour and Politics in the
Belle Epoque" (Palgrave Macmillan)
* Jacques Kayser, transl. Nora Bickley, "The Dreyfus Affair",
(Kessinger Publishing)
* Albert S. Lindemann, "The Jew Accused: Three Anti-Semitic Affairs
(Dreyfus, Bellis, Frank), 1894-1915", (Cambridge University Press)
This website provides a comprehensive digital bibliography:
http://www.dreyfuscase.com/
There have been a number of movies of the case, beginning with silent short
films in 1899, soon after Zola's J'Accuse letter was published.
http://www.imdb.com/find?s=all&q=dreyfus
8. Asset Management Network News
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