CHALLENGES AND GAPS IN BIOTERRORISM’S DETECTION AND INVESTIGATION

Abstract

Purpose

This paper explores specific challenges about detecting and examining evidence in suspected or confirmed bioterrorism events to identify gaps and discuss opportunities.

Design/Methods/Approach

This desk-based study is based on current literature and INTERPOL’s experience working with its membership in the area of bioterrorism prevention, preparedness and response.

Findings

The nature of bioterrorism incidents and lack of fit-for-purpose equipment make them very difficult to detect compared to other unconventional terrorism attacks. While some countries have built strong approaches to detect and examine bio-contaminated evidence, many countries are still looking for guidance in that domain. Building from its outreach and work with its 196 countries, INTERPOL - with the support of its partners - is strengthening the global monitoring and detection of bioterrorism incidents as well as contributing to the establishment of safer and more robust approaches for the investigation and processing of bio-contaminated evidence.

Originality/Value

While some scientific literature exists on bioterrorism forensics, the recent mostly focuses on microbial forensics. This paper focuses on the institutional limitations and gaps in the detection of bioterrorism incidents, measures for the safe and efficient processing of the evidence collected in such investigations, as well as discussing opportunities to address those gaps.