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Securing the Border: Cargo Security |
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by Virginia T. Wilson
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There has been a dramatic shift in the focus of smuggling across state and international borders over the past few years. Historically, the focus of smuggling has been on the drug trade and the use of “drug mules” to bring illegal drugs into the country; this focus has been replaced by the fear of human smuggling and weapons used in terrorist acts. An increase in attention has also been paid to those entering the country, due to illegal immigration concerns and potential terrorist admission.
Since 9/11, cargo security and screening measures have been a main focus of the national security industry, due in large part to the concern that the shipping industry can be targeted for large-scale attack and can be manipulated to ship harmful items for terrorist groups. Significant damage can occur if a cargo container filled with explosives or a dirty bomb is able to enter U.S. ports. Likewise, there is a significant threat that terrorist groups can take advantage of the shipping industry to ship weapons, including weapons of mass destruction. |
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