Nov. 8th 2010
In the Washington Examiner, author Sara Carter explains that tunnels discovered along the United States border to Mexico highlight fears by the government of terrorists using these tunnels to surpass security. These tunnels, mainly used for human smuggling not only in Texas, but all of the border states, may actually allow for Islamic extremists to enter the country unnoticed. Indeed, rumors on the Internet speak of an alliance between these extremists and cartels[1], although this cannot be truly confirmed for sure by current intelligence.
The article went on to quote officials from both the Border Patrol and law enforcement officers:
"Our number one concern is national security," said a senior law enforcement official with direct knowledge of the 1,800 foot tunnel discovered in California. "The vulnerability created by the tunnel being used by terrorist organizations is there."
One official involved in anti-terrorism efforts referred to a 2006 Department of Homeland Security intelligence report that revealed al Qaeda was recruiting citizens in Central America. "It's very concerning when you have a border that allows for anyone to cross over," the official added. [2]
Although, as previously stated, such intelligence is still being investigated, there is further evidence of potential for security risks as long as these tunnels are still being made.
Last year, a video surfaced on Al Jazeera network showing al Qaeda recruiter Abdullah al-Nafisi telling a room full of supporters in Bahrain that the terrorist group was casing the border with Mexico to assess how to send terrorists and weapons into the United States.[3]
Comments: Since the Obama administration has yet to take a stance on border security, the author’s assertions, and the assertion of others online, may actually come true. With the increase of news reports telling of extremists and their attempt to enter our borders, there may be a high risk within the next six to twelve months of an attack within or right outside the border of the United States with the use of these tunnels.
Border Patrol should call for more assistance, especially from those who specialize in geological and satellite intelligence in order to quickly and efficiently find these tunnels and cover them up as soon as they are found. For this to occur, it is possible that more funding is needed, which would lead to the Obama administration potentially cracking down on border crime and finally taking a position and enforcing border security.
[1] http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u8P1DeAQzWI
[2] http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/world/Tunnel-on-Mexican-border-highlights-fears-of-smuggling-by-terrorists-1499972-106919013.html
[3] http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/world/Tunnel-on-Mexican-border-highlights-fears-of-smuggling-by-terrorists-1499972-106919013.html
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