The U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service has ordered that all Yemeni nationals be searched before entering or leaving the United States.
CBS News Correspondent Bob Orr reports it is one of the most specific security alerts to be issued since September 11th.
An INS memo obtained by CBS News directs agents at U.S. airports, borders, and ports to do “A complete and thorough search of all baggage” carried by Yemeni travelers and “to take an inventory of all effects.” Only those carrying diplomatic passports are exempt.
The memo specifically orders agents to look for "...large sums of currency, thermos bottles, night vision goggles or devices.” It warns, “Under no circumstances will an inspecting officer open a thermos bottle.”
The order was given last Thursday after a recent raid of an apartment housing a number of Yemeni nationals somewhere in the Northeast U.S.
Law enforcement officers discovered dozens of thermos bottles, some rigged with batteries; wire was also found. Authorities say these components could have been used in manufacturing bombs.
One source said the recovery of the materials and the ensuing alert are not connected to any known plot or specific threat. Officials haven’t said whether anyone has been detained as a result of this latest security memo.
Yemen has been a known haven for al Qaeda operatives.
Source: CBS News
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