On February 21, 2015, al-Shabaab, al-Qa‘ida’s East Africa-based affiliate, released a video entitled “The Westgate Siege–Retributive Justice”. The video attempts to provide justification for al-Shabaab’s September 2013 terror attack on the Westgate Mall in Nairobi, Kenya. The video concludes by encouraging similar attacks on “American or Jewish-owned” shopping centers and districts, particularly in the West, including the Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota.
Following the threat, the NYPD issued a statement saying they were aware of the video and have taken steps to ensure the safety of New Yorkers.
“We are aware of the recent ‘threat’ and we have been in touch with our international and federal liaisons. Although there is no direct threat against New York City, as well as no credible intelligence of such, we have taken appropriate precautionary measures, such as alerting our Critical Response Vehicles and our ‘Hercules’ (special counter-terrorism) Teams. This is something we regularly do in response to terror incidents/threats in other areas of the world that may impact New York City,” the statement from NYPD Deputy Commissioner of Public Information Stephen Davis said.
Remember to remain vigilant amid these threats. If you see something, say something! You can report suspicious activity to 1-888-NYC-SAFE (1-888-692-7233) or NYCSAFE@nypd.org. If you are interested in training courses for your staff, such as Terrorism Awareness for the Security Professional, Detecting Hostile Surveillance and Recommendations for Active Shooter Incidents, please do not hesitate to contact the SHIELD office at 718-615-7506 or at CTSHIELD@nypd.org.
Sources:
- http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2015/02/22/nypd-takes-precautionary-measures-following-threat-against-u-s-shopping-malls/
- http://abcnews.go.com/US/mall-america-heightens-security-al-shabab-threat/story?id=29137738
- http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/21/us/al-shabaab-calls-for-mall-attacks/
- http://www.foxnews.com/world/2015/02/23/al-shabaab-reportedly-calls-for-attack-on-mall-america-in-new-video/
- http://www.msnbc.com/msnbc/mall-america-shoppers-must-be-careful-amid-threats-johnson