Incendiary devices that ignited in Germany and the United Kingdom in July were part of a covert Russian operation that aimed to start fires aboard cargo and passenger flights heading to the US and Canada, the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported Monday, citing Western security officials.
The devices, which were reportedly electric massagers implanted with a magnesium-based flammable substance, were sent to the UK from Lithuania and “appear to have been a test run to figure out how to get such incendiary devices aboard planes bound for North America,” the WSJ reported.
Polish authorities in October said four people had been arrested under suspicion of being involved in international sabotage and a sabotage group, according to a statement from the national prosecutor’s office. An international search has been initiated for two more suspects.
The Polish statement, which does not name the sabotage group, says “parcels containing camouflaged explosives and dangerous materials” were sent via courier to the UK and European Union countries and “spontaneously ignited or detonated during land and air transport.”
It adds that the group’s goal “was (also) to test the transfer channel for this type of shipments which were ultimately to be sent to the United States of America and Canada.”
Multiple security officials across Europe describe a threat that is metastasizing as Russian agents, increasingly under scrutiny by security services and frustrated in their own operations, hire local amateurs to undertake high-risk, and often deniable, crimes on their behalf.
Interview: Time.news Editor with Security Expert on Recent Incendiary Device Plot
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome to our audience. Today, we have a special guest, Dr. Elena Ivankov, a security expert specializing in international terrorism and aviation security. Dr. Ivankov, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Elena Ivankov (EI): Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to discuss such critical issues.
TNE: Let’s dive right in. Recent reports from the Wall Street Journal indicate that incendiary devices were discovered in Germany and the UK, tied to a covert Russian operation aimed at igniting fires on flights to North America. What do you make of this situation?
EI: It’s quite alarming. The fact that these devices were disguised as everyday items, like electric massagers, shows a level of sophistication and intent from the perpetrators. It suggests not just a plan to cause chaos, but also a strategic approach to test security measures in airports.
TNE: Right. These devices were reportedly sent from Lithuania to the UK. What does this indicate about the logistics of such operations?
EI: It indicates a well-coordinated effort. Sending these devices from Lithuania suggests a supply chain that has been carefully managed. It’s not only about making it past security but also understanding and exploiting vulnerabilities within the air travel system.
TNE: The reports mention the devices contained a magnesium-based flammable substance. How concerning is this specific choice of material?
EI: Magnesium is a highly reactive metal. When ignited, it burns at very high temperatures, which can easily cause significant damage. Its use in this context underscores the seriousness of the threat; it’s not just about creating a distraction, but potentially causing catastrophic incidents in-flight.
TNE: You mentioned testing airport security. How might this impact global aviation security measures moving forward?
EI: We can expect an immediate review of cargo handling procedures, as well as intensified screening processes for carry-on luggage. Airports might also look into enhancing their training programs for security personnel to identify unusual patterns or behaviors. This incident could set a precedent for stricter regulations and protocols worldwide.
TNE: What should passengers know about their safety in the wake of such events?
EI: It’s important for passengers to remain vigilant. While security measures are likely to increase, passengers can also play a role by being aware of their surroundings and reporting anything suspicious. It’s a shared responsibility between security forces and the flying public.
TNE: what do you believe is the takeaway from this incident for governments and security agencies?
EI: The takeaway is clear: there are threats emerging that require adaptive and proactive measures. Governments must enhance international cooperation to track and dismantle these covert operations. Security agencies need to think outside the box and not only fortify existing protocols but also anticipate future threats.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. Ivankov, for your insights on this critical issue. It’s been enlightening to hear your perspective.
EI: Thank you for having me. It’s essential that we keep these conversations ongoing, as collective awareness can lead to real change.
TNE: Absolutely. We appreciate your time and expertise. To our audience, stay informed and stay safe.