'Worldwide' Thanksgiving Terror Threat Hits PA: Cops, Airports Clamp Down

By TOM DAVIS (Patch Staff)

Pennsylvanians should be alert to the possible travel risks, especially during Thanksgiving, following increased terrorist threats around the world, the State Department warned.

And Pennsylvania authorities are responding by clamping down on major travel destinations and travel routes.

A travel alert, which is to be in effect until Feb. 24, said current information suggests that militants with the Islamic State, al-Qaida, Boko Haram and other terrorist groups continue to plan attacks in multiple regions.

U.S. authorities said the likelihood of terror attacks will continue as members of ISIS return from Syria and Iraq, and other individuals not affiliated with terror groups engage in violence on their own.

A new level of security protection was also imposed for Thanksgiving flyers at Philadelphia International Airport, according to authorities.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is now using specially trained K-9 units to detect explosives or dangerous substances at the airport, according to CBSPhilly.

The five Passenger Screening Canines will mix in with passengers in ticketing and boarding areas, sniffing around and remaining friendly - though they should not be petted, according to the report.

Each dog is trained to signal its handler if it detects anything suspicious; they will continue to work behind-the-scenes with baggage and containers, according to the report.

Police for the Port Authority in NY and NJ have been stopping suspicious trucks and other suspicious vehicles en route to the George Washington Bridge upper level tolls.

The Port Authority also has stationed additional officers and equipped them to handle the increased terror threat, officials said.

The Port Authority released a statement:

As the Thanksgiving holiday weekend approaches, the Port Authority Police Department remains on heightened alert at all of the agency’s bridge, tunnel, rail, World Trade Center and other facilities, following the recent tragic terrorism incidents in Paris and elsewhere. Actions include increased patrols and checks of bags, buses, trucks and trains at agency locations. Travelers also are reminded to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to police or other authorities.

Joseph Pentangelo, a Port Authority spokesman, said this “Counter-Terrorism Initiative Operation” involves officers and supervisors wearing vests with heavy weaponry conducting the stops.

Pentangelo said the officers are stopping trucks or any suspicious vehicle on the approach to the bridge to make suree they aren’t carrying anything dangerous.

Pentangelo said different approaches were being taken at various ports, crossings and airports in Newark and New York City, and at authority-patrolled bus terminals and train stations.