Threat Of Terrorism Research Articles

UPPER-RIM NITRO AND LOWER-RIM METHOXY FUNCTIONALIZED CALIX[4]ARENE BASED COLORIMETRIC SENSOR FOR DETECTION OF 2,4,6-TRINITROPHENOL

The development of effective sensors capable of detecting 2,4,6-trinitrophenol (TNP), or picric acid, at extremely low levels is a very interesting field of study for prevention of environmental contamination and terrorist threats. Therefore, in this study, a colorimetric sensor (MNC4) based on calix[4]arene containing a chromophore group was prepared for the detection of TNP. The photophysical interaction of MNC4 with target nitroaromatic compounds (NACs) was evaluated using UV-Vis. spectroscopy. The initial MNC4 solution was colorless, but a distinct color change was observed in the case of TNP, indicating a stronger binding affinity with MNC4. Spectral investigations also confirmed the relatively strong complexation between MNC4 and TNP. The limit of detection (LOD) value for TNP was found to be 520 nM, indicating that MNC4 can detect TNP down to the nanomolar level, which is significantly lower than the permissible level (2.2 µM). The stoichiometric ratio of the complex formed between MNC4 and TNP was determined to be 1:2. The developed sensor enables the colorimetric detection of TNP with the naked eye without the need for any instrumentation, highlighting its potential for real-world applications.

Aging Alone in a Continuous Traumatic Situation: External Coping Resources

ABSTRACT Exposure to a persistent terrorist threat constitutes a continuous traumatic situation (CTS) that can severely impact one’s mental and physical health. For older adults living in CTS, this risk is compounded by the challenges of aging. This vulnerability is significantly heightened for older adults living alone in CTS, who typically experience increased social isolation and loneliness. Past research has explored internal coping resources that help these individuals deal with their stressful circumstances. Nevertheless, external coping resources have been hardly explored, making it difficult to create policies and practices to support older adults living alone in areas affected by terrorism. To address this lacuna, we conducted semi-structured in-depth interviews with 15 older adults living alone in Sderot, an Israeli city that has been under constant terror attacks for over two decades, and analyzed them using thematic analysis. Four external coping resources were identified: family; friendships; communal resources including a sense of belonging to their community and neighbors; and formal resources provided to them by the municipality and the state, comprising instrumental and emotional support. The findings affirm the significance of external coping resources for older adults facing continuous stress and trauma, suggesting ways to strengthen these resources to boost individuals’ resilience.

METHODOLOGICAL APPROACH TO ENHANCING THE SECURITY AND RESILIENCE OF CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE OBJECTS

The article examines the methodological approach to increasing the safety and stability of critical infrastructure objects, which is an important element of ensuring Ukraine’s national security. In the conditions of modern terrorist threats, military operations, and technological progress, the need to develop effective approaches to the protection of such objects becomes especially relevant. The existing approaches for determining certain levels of guaranteed security for critical infrastructure (CI) objects are analyzed. Their assessment is provided and the shortcomings are identified. The use of a quantitative method for assessing the probability and consequences of risky events at CI facilities is proposed, which allows to increase the accuracy of assessments and the effectiveness of risk management. A mathematical model of cascading effects of various types in the event of danger risks for critical infrastructure objects has been developed, which allows obtaining probabilistic estimates of the development of events under defined scenarios. An algorithm for countermeasures with the appearance of appropriate threats for typical CI objects has been built. Proposals for emergency response measures have been developed, which can be successfully used to make informed decisions about increasing the safety and stability of critical infrastructure objects, for the development of strategic plans and long-term policies regarding the management of critical infrastructure. The proposed approach allows you to assess all threats and analyze possible scenarios of threat implementation, prioritize threats according to their degree of probability, model the likely consequences of threat implementation, taking into account various conditions and risk factors, identify vulnerabilities in the systems of CI objects, create strategies for responding to crisis situations.

Assessing the Effectiveness of Local-Based Approaches Adopted Towards Addressing Terrorism in Lamu County, Kenya and Baadadhe District, Somalia

In the global context, terrorism has evolved into a complex and transnational threat. Al-Shabaab posed significant threats, particularly to East African countries, due to its capacity for numerous attacks in Somalia and neighboring nations. Despite employing alternative strategies, such as a multiagency and comprehensive government approach to tackle terrorism in Lamu and Baadadhe, acts of terror persisted in the region. The study explored the efficacy of a populace-centered approach in curbing terrorism in Somalia and Kenya. The populace-centered approach aimed to actively involve the local population in Lamu County, Basuba Ward, in socio-economic development initiated by security personnel to address the root cause of insecurity problems. The approach was guided by the Securitization theory, System theory, and Power theory, which held a significant relationship with the terror threats and insecurity challenges in Lamu County and Baadadhe district. The study employed a descriptive research design with stratified sampling, with target population 4506 and a sample size of 363 obtained through Slovin sampling formula. It gathered stakeholders' perspectives through questionnaires, interviews, and group discussions. Both quantitative and qualitative analyses . Quantitative data was analyzed through statistical analysis while qualitative data was analyzed thematic analysis. The analysis revealed community responses to terrorism, including physical and cyber threats, through initiatives like neighborhood watch groups and religious collaborations. The study highlighted the importance of strengthening existing structures like neighborhood watch groups and enhancing collaborations with religious leaders and schools. The study concluded that the populace involvement in countering terrorism in Lamu, Kenya and Baadadhe, Somalia reflects a vigilant and multifaceted approach encompassing various aspects, from physical to cyber threats. Further, the research concluded that populace-centered approach is effective in curbing terrorism through information sharing. The study recommended for active involvement of community leaders in security committees and advocated for a legal framework supporting a populace-centered approach to counter-terrorism. Policymakers and security agencies should consider diverse economic and environmental contexts in Lamu County, Kenya, Baadadhe, Somalia.

Strategi Kodam III/Siliwangi dalam Pemberdayaan Wilayah Pertahanan untuk Ketahanan Nasional

Strengthening Indonesia's national defense in facing various threats, both physical and non-physical. This strengthening includes the modernization of military equipment, community empowerment through territorial development programs, and increased coordination between regions. Kodam III/Siliwangi plays an important role in maintaining the stability of the West Java and Banten regions, especially in the face of the threat of terrorism, natural disasters, and cyber attacks. This study aims to analyze the strategy of Kodam III/Siliwangi in empowering land defense areas to realize national resilience. The focus of the research includes the modernization of military equipment, community empowerment through territorial development programs, and improved coordination between regions to deal with various threats, both physical and non-physical. Kodam III/Siliwangi, as the subject of the research, plays a strategic role in maintaining the stability of the West Java and Banten regions, especially in dealing with the threat of terrorism, natural disasters, and cyber attacks. The research method used is qualitative descriptive with SWOT analysis. The results of the study show that Kodam III/Siliwangi implements an aggressive strategy through optimizing disaster-resilient infrastructure, strengthening cyber capacity, and continuous human resource training, thereby increasing operational readiness in facing physical and digital threats. Collaboration with local governments, educational institutions, and research strengthens integrated defense planning. In addition, local economic development through partnerships with the private sector and community empowerment supports social and economic stability, making the region more adaptive to various conventional and non-conventional challenges.

Risk Assessment of Radiological Dispersal Device Terrorism in Malaysia Cities

Research has revealed that a terror attack in Malaysia, a developing nation, is a cause for alarm as it could create panic among its citizens. To address this, a study was conducted to investigate the dispersion of radionuclides after a hypothetical explosion, considering multiple cities in Malaysia as potential targets, including Kuala Lumpur, Kuching, and Kota Kinabalu. The primary aim of the research was to analyze the dose concentrations released from the RDD explosion over a 24-hour period and to assess the associated health risks in terms of morbidity and mortality per 100,000 people in these cities. The Hybrid Single-Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory (HYSPLIT) software was employed to simulate the trajectory and dispersion of air particles, taking into account parameters such as time, altitude, and potential target cities, based on meteorological data from the Global Data Assimilation System (GDAS) of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The research focused on the analysis of Cs-137 at 50 TBq and was conducted with simulations on December 22, 2020. Results from the simulations revealed that the dose concentration in the air within 24 hours was 3.3 mSv, 1.8 mSv, and 7.7 mSv for Kuala Lumpur, Kuching, and Kota Kinabalu, respectively, while the dose deposited on the ground was 150 mSv, 71 mSv, and 310 mSv for the same cities. Furthermore, it was found that the dose concentration was most significant within the first four hours after the release of Cs-137, peaking between 30 to 90 minutes at altitudes of 60 to 80 meters. In terms of risk assessment, the research indicated that, for individuals located at this altitude during the timeframe of 0045 hours to 0100 hours after the dispersion of Cs-137, there could be 88 fatalities and 128 injuries per 100,000 residents in the city. The simulation offers valuable insights and guidance for governmental efforts to improve radioactive waste management and formulating or enhancing protocols to address such incidents promptly. It is essential to take swift and effective actions in order to protect the lives of the population in the event of a radiological terrorist threat.

Peran Pancasila dalam Pembentukan Undang-Undang Anti- Terorisme di Indonesia

This research discusses how Indonesia can integrate Pancasila values in anti-terrorism policies, amidst international pressure which often leads to harsher approaches based on the standards of Western countries. An approach that prioritizes security can conflict with Pancasila principles, such as respect for human rights and social justice. Pancasila as the basic ideology of the state emphasizes the importance of balance between individual rights and the interests of society. In facing the threat of terrorism, Indonesia needs to adopt policies that not only strictly enforce the law, but also prioritize prevention through education, community empowerment and strengthening human values. This research aims to analyze how Pancasila values are implemented in Indonesia's anti-terrorism policy and the challenges that arise in harmonization with international norms. Globalization and technological developments pose new challenges in the spread of radical ideology, so policies are needed that are responsive but still based on Pancasila. Indonesia's anti- terrorism legal policy must be able to balance tough law enforcement with a humanist and dialogical approach, in line with the spirit of Pancasila which upholds just and civilized humanity. It is hoped that this research can contribute to more humane and effective policies.

World-Systems Ground of Terrorist Threats: on the Issue of Methodology for Studying Armed Conflicts in the Post-Soviet Space

Introduction. The purpose of the article is to systematize the world-system prerequisites for terrorist threats, to show the place of terrorism within the theoretical structures of the movement of capital in the world-system and the maturation of contradictions in the functioning of its cycle. Methodology and sources. The authors use the “Figure-ground movement” method proposed by T. K. Hopkins and consider the world-system as a background for the study of terrorism. Refocusing perception makes it possible to more clearly see the connections between terrorism and the world-system. The geopolitical concept of R. Collins and M. Crenshaw’s concept of the development of terrorist organizations are used as theoretical foundations in addition to the world-system approach. Results and discussion. A series of successive refocuses were carried out to identify the connections between terrorism and the contradictions of the capitalist world-system. As a result, it was shown that the hegemon and the core states achieve success by maintaining a «civilized» order in the world-system by declaring the values of centrist liberalism. However, it must be recognized that states often use less expensive than the introduction of regular troops, but illegitimate means of terror to protect their interests. Terror can be used in the struggle for power when core states include their economies in a network of cumulative vectors. A number of prerequisites were discovered after a refocus from terrorism to the movement of capital in the world-system cycle. The movement of capital from the core to the periphery increases social inequality and causes the growth of national and ethnic differences that can feed separatist ideologies of terrorism. The outflow of capital from the economies of non-core areas increases the ability of the political force that has challenged the hegemon and the core states to mobilize the population under anti-system slogans that can fuel international terrorism. Based on the obtained theoretical models, the prerequisites for terrorist activity on the territory of the USSR and in the post-Soviet space were briefly described. Conclusion. The authors emphasize that the resulting theoretical models require additional verification. The next stage in the study of the causes of terrorism should be an analysis of the mechanisms of formation of terrorist organizations based on specific cases.

Officers’ Perceptions on Inf luence of Selected Factors on General Service Unit’s Capacity to Contain Terrorism in Kenya

Terrorist attacks have lately been on the increase with security officers being the main target. Despite the preparations that the GSU are undergoing, the intensity of terrorist attacks has continued pointing to the need to investigate the perceptions of officers regarding the various factors that influence their capacity to combat terrorism in Kenya, amid ongoing threats from groups such as Al Shabab. This study was carried out at G.S.U Training School Embakasi, Nairobi, Kenya. Utilizing theory of contingencies, despite various governmental initiatives, Kenya has faced persistent terrorist attacks, prompting a need to explore underlying issues that hinder effective counterterrorism efforts. The study specifically aimed to examine how intra and inter-institutional coordination and intelligence sharing affect the GSU’s operational readiness and response to terrorism. Employing a descriptive research design, data was gathered through questionnaires distributed to a stratified random sample of 120 GSU officers at the GSU Training School in Embakasi, Nairobi, supplemented by secondary sources. The analysis utilized both qualitative and quantitative methods, employing descriptive statistics and thematic narratives to present findings. Results revealed significant lapses in coordination and cooperation in information sharing among national security agencies, which impede the GSU’s effectiveness against terrorist threats. The study underscores the necessity for enhanced strategic intelligence and collaborative frameworks to improve counterterrorism operations in Kenya. Recommendations for developing a more robust counterterrorism strategy for the GSU are provided based on the findings.

Albania’s counter-terrorism policy in the face of evolving terrorist threats

This topic explores the dynamic landscape of terrorist threats in Albania and delves into the country’s counter-terrorism policies. Analysing the evolving nature of these threats, the discussion will focus on Albania’s strategic initiatives, cooperation, and existing institutions. By analysing the multifaceted dimensions of Albania’s counter-terrorism efforts, this study aims to shed light on the country’s commitment to protecting its citizens and contributing to global security. The aim of the article is to analyse the terrorist threat in Albania and the anti-terrorist policy pursued. Two research methods were used in the article, i.e. the institutional-legal method and the content analysis method. Both methods allowed the analysis of selected normative acts and the selection of institutions dedicated to the fight against terrorism. With the use of a selected content analysis relating to the developing situation in Albania in recent years, the author indicates the reasons for the occurrence of possible terrorist threats and evaluates whether Albania is a country with a low terrorist threat.

Terrorism in Nigeria: Exploring the causes and the rise of Boko Haram

Terrorism remains a significant challenge in Nigeria, with Boko Haram emerging as one of the deadliest terrorist groups in the region. This article explores the concept of terrorism, its various types, and the unique factors that have contributed to the rise of Boko Haram. By analysing the economic, political, and social dynamics of Nigeria, the article examines the root causes of terrorism in the country. Factors such as religious and cultural diversity, economic stagnation, and deep-rooted political corruption are identified as key drivers that have fuelled Boko Haram’s growth. The inability of Nigeria’s security and justice systems to effectively manage these challenges further exacerbates the problem. Moreover, the article discusses the broader implications of these factors on national stability, social cohesion, and regional security. Boko Haram's rise is not an isolated event but rather a complex interplay of various socio-political and economic issues. Understanding these underlying causes is essential to addressing the terrorist threat in Nigeria. The article concludes by suggesting that a holistic approach, involving both domestic reforms and international cooperation, is necessary to combat terrorism effectively and bring peace to the region

Peningkatan Kemampuan Korps Brimob Polri dalam Bidang KBRN untuk Menghadapi Ancaman Terorisme: Sebuah Pendekatan dalam Mendukung OMSP

This research aims to analyze the enhancement of the Indonesian National Police Mobile Brigade Corps (Korps Brimob Polri) in handling terrorism threats involving Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) materials, to support the implementation of Military Operations Other Than War (MOOTW). CBRN-based terrorism has become a serious threat in Indonesia and internationally, with increasing attacks using these dangerous materials from 2011 to 2019. Korbrimob, as the elite unit of the Indonesian National Police (Polri), plays a strategic role in addressing these threats. However, further development is needed in organizational capacity, human resources, equipment, and inter-agency coordination to improve handling effectiveness. This research employs a qualitative approach using SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) to evaluate the internal and external factors that influence Korbrimob’s capability in dealing with CBRN terrorism. Data was collected through interviews with stakeholders, document analysis, and field observations. Data validation was performed through triangulation techniques to ensure the accuracy of the research findings. The key findings of this study indicate that while Korbrimob Polri has established specialized CBRN units across Indonesia, several weaknesses persist, including equipment limitations, lack of adequate training, and ineffective synergy with relevant agencies, including the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the National Counterterrorism Agency (BNPT). Korbrimob’s main strength lies in its personnel capabilities and cross-sectoral cooperation, but weaknesses in authority and resources hinder the necessary capacity improvements. This research recommends increasing Korbrimob’s authority in handling CBRN, developing specialized equipment, and enhancing joint training frequency with TNI and other relevant agencies to improve readiness in facing CBRN-based terrorism threats.

Global Jihad and Local Sentiment: The Impact of the Hamas-Israel Conflict on Radicalization in Indonesia

The prolonged conflict between Hamas and Israel has significant impacts on the social and political dynamics in various countries, including Indonesia. This study aims to analyze how this conflict affects radicalization and the development of terrorism ideology in Indonesia. The methodology employed is a qualitative approach based on narrative analysis through document studies and secondary data. This research applies the Relative Deprivation Theory to explain the dissatisfaction felt by Indonesian Muslims regarding the conditions in Palestine, and the Framing Theory to understand how the conflict narrative is framed by radical groups. The findings indicate that the narrative of Palestinian suffering and the legitimacy of jihad are used by extremist groups to recruit new members and garner support. Additionally, this phenomenon contributes to an increase in anti-Israel sentiment among Indonesian society. The findings reveal the complex relationship between international conflicts and local radicalization, which calls for more serious attention from the government in addressing potential terrorism threats arising from these sentiments.

Introduction to Nuclear Forensics Analysis Techniques

Abstract Nuclear forensics is the interdisciplinary branch of forensic science that deals with the analysis and examination of nuclear or other radioactive materials, or of evidence that is contaminated with radionuclides in the context of legal proceedings under international or national law related to nuclear security. To control and avoid the threat of terrorism posed by illicit trafficking and mismanagement, nuclear and other radioactive materials must be strictly regulated. Thus, the goal of nuclear forensic analysis is to discover what radioactive materials were confiscated, how, when, and where they were manufactured, and what their intended applications were. Nuclear forensic scientist has a wide array of analytical tools to use for detecting signatures in radioactive materials. These individual techniques can be sorted into three broad categories: bulk analysis tools, imaging tools, and microanalysis tools. Particular interest in nuclear forensics is particle morphology, isotopic composition of a material, presence of impurities, and microstructure. These properties can vary between materials of different origins due to varying processing or geological conditions, thus, allowing for discrimination of material history and prediction of provenance. This review article presents many key analytical techniques and discusses the main application and challenges of the most common techniques currently used in nuclear forensics analysis.

Experimental application of graphene quantum dots for the removal of nuclear materials from metal and plastic surfaces

This study explores the application of graphene quantum dots (GQDs) as innovative nanomaterials for the efficient removal of nuclear materials from metal and plastic surfaces, especially in contexts involving terrorist threats, such as “dirty bombs” and radiological dispersal devices (RDDs). These devices use conventional explosives combined with radioactive materials to contaminate large areas, posing significant risks to health and the environment. This investigation addresses the growing global concern about the use and threat of such weapons, particularly in the context of escalating wars and the increasing vulnerability of nuclear facilities to security breaches. Our focus is on the unique properties of GQDs—such as their chemical stability, high surface area, quantum confinement effects, and electronic characteristics—that enhance their ability to effectively adsorb radioactive isotopes. We examine the potential of GQDs to interact with various radioactive materials, focusing on isotopes commonly associated with RDDs, such as cesium-137, cobalt-60, strontium-90, and iridium-192. Functionalization techniques are employed to enhance the interaction of GQDs with specific isotopes, thus improving the decontamination process. Our findings reveal that GQDs can efficiently remove iodine-131 (I-131) from several metals: Aluminum (91.27%), zinc (98.67%), and monel (96.40%). They also demonstrate high efficiency in removing I-131 from rigid polyvinyl chloride. On the other hand, GQDs presented moderate efficiency in removing technetium-99m, with removal rates of 64.93% from monel, 55.11% from aluminum, and 41.80% from zinc. Overall, GQDs could play a crucial role in mitigating the consequences of dirty bomb detonations, offering a quick and effective method to reduce radiological impacts in affected areas. This research enhances our understanding of nanomaterials in responding to radiological emergencies, presenting GQDs as a viable solution to contemporary challenges in public health and safety. The implications of this study extend beyond immediate decontamination, suggesting broader applications of GQDs in environmental safety and nuclear safety protocols.

Forecasting terrorist threats as an element of the anti-terrorist system

The article is devoted to the problem of forecasting terrorist threats and its role in the state’s anti-terrorist system. The aim of the article is to present the methodology of forecasting terrorist threats at three levels: strategic, operational and tactical. The text presents basic methods, techniques and tools used in threats forecasting. The main thesis of the article is the statement that a properly prepared forecast allows to determine with a high degree of probability the possibility of a terrorist threat, however, in such a case we are always dealing with the assessment of such a possibility, and not with cognitive certainty. System analysis was used as the basic research method.

Prognozowanie zagrożeń terrorystycznych jako element systemu antyterrorystycznego

The article is devoted to the problem of forecasting terrorist threats and its role in the state’s anti-terrorist system. The aim of the article is to present the methodology of forecasting terrorist threats at three levels: strategic, operational and tactical. The text presents basic methods, techniques and tools used in threats forecasting. The main thesis of the article is the statement that a properly prepared forecast allows to determine with a high degree of probability the possibility of a terrorist threat, however, in such a case we are always dealing with the assessment of such a possibility, and not with cognitive certainty. System analysis was used as the basic research method.

Jarosław Cymerski, Contemporary security formation in the face of terrorist threats

Jarosław Cymerski, Contemporary security formation in the face of terrorist threats

Advancing source reactor-type discrimination using machine learning techniques and SFCOMPO-2.0 experimental database

In recent years, nuclear forensic analysis has become crucial due to the growing global threat of nuclear terrorism and smuggling. Since 2005, extensive research has been conducted on identifying the origin of spent nuclear fuel, focusing on the source reactor-type discrimination, 235U enrichment of the fresh fuel, and the fuel exposure in the reactor (known as burnup). However, the majority of research relies on computed databases, which may lead to tracing discrepancies compared with actual situations. The present study employs the isotopic measurements from the experimental SFCOMPO-2.0 database to predict nuclear reactor types using Factor Analysis (FA) and various machine learning classification algorithms. The results reveal that FA is an effective method for dimension reduction and visualization. The FA-KNN, Random Forest (RF), and Multilayer Perceptron (MLP) algorithms are applied using a consistent dataset partition to ensure unbiased comparisons. The prediction results based on 10-fold stratified cross-validation are quite promising and the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves for multi-class classification confirm the excellent generalization ability of models. Therefore, the application of machine learning techniques is highly effective for reactor-type forensics analysis, especially for RF and MLP.

Psychological Predictors of Aviation Personnel Readiness to Counter Terrorist Threats

The article presents the characteristics of psychological predictors of the readiness of civil aviation personnel to counter terrorist threats. An analysis of the existing practice of training civil aviation personnel is presented, the need to introduce into the educational process of training aviation personnel a system of psychological and pedagogical support for aviation personnel in the process of professional training to counter terrorist threats, which will be focused on increasing the psychological readiness of future specialists in the field of countering terrorism and extremism, is substantiated. The importance of training aviation personnel in profiling technology in the system of psychological and pedagogical support for the training of specialists is emphasized.