By Curt Anderson, The Associated Press
WASHINGTON (AP) -- The FBI said Thursday there is no specific, credible threat of a terror attack timed to the Independence Day holiday but still urged law enforcement officials to increase patrols and watch for possible terrorist surveillance.
The weekly FBI bulletin to 18,000 state and local law enforcement agencies cited recent intelligence indicating continuing al-Qaida interest in attacking a wide range of targets, including gas stations and refineries; subways, bridges and tunnels; financial and government institutions; civil aviation and power plants and dams.
Citing recent attacks overseas, the FBI said that al-Qaida could use such tactics as assault teams equipped with small arms, explosive devices concealed in vehicles or individual suicide bombers.
Law enforcement officials were asked to be especially wary of possible terrorist surveillance, which the FBI said nearly always occurs prior to any attack “to determine suitability, security and probability of success.”
Signs of such surveillance include people spotted videotaping or photographing security measures, particularly individuals who seem to be wearing improper clothing for the weather or are seen taking notes in an area not usually of public interest. Terrorists may also make anonymous threats to observe how security reacts.
The bulletin also lists “visible indicators” that have been observed prior to suicide bomb attacks in other countries. These include heavy clothing in hot weather, “protruding bulges or exposed wires” and “chemical odors,” disguises and attempts to gain position near crowds or VIP targets, irregular baggage and “tightened hands or hands continually in the pockets of trousers or outer clothing.”
Even though no specific Fourth of July threat exists, the FBI said police around the country should consider extra protective measures just in case. These include stepping up patrols and approaching all illegally parked vehicles and questioning drivers in key areas.