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Antiterrorism Message: Stay vigilant this season

CHIÈVRES, Belgium -- The U.S. Army Garrison Benelux Antiterrorism Office is asking you to assist our security professionals across the Benelux in extending your eyes and ears to report incidents which might precede terrorist attack preparation or in-the-act of target surveillance.

Anyone reading or watching the news heard the stories of how worldwide intelligence leaders are concerned about the potential for an increase in terrorist activity here in Western Europe. Pay attention to special events as you travel throughout Europe. Although not specifically directed at U.S. personnel, many large cities can and will have marches and demonstrations at any time.

If you are in the vicinity of one of these events, use your best judgement.  Stay away from the area of the protest. Research before you go and check the U.S. State Department Website, EuroNews channel, local channels and any media source you can think of to educate yourself and your family. Please report suspicious activity when you see it.

Our office is asked all the time "What makes a person suspicious?" Actions listed below are key indicators for suspicious activities:

  • People or vehicles "who don't seem to belong" near the installation, major event location, city/federal buildings using a camera, video equipment or a timing device and map.
  • People taking notes or asking questions regarding infrastructure of the installation, city, government facilities, major event locations and historical places. People you don't know asking you what you do on the base, what it takes to get onto the base and how hard is it to get onto the base.
  • People possessing or using night vision devices, global positioning systems near the installation, city, government buildings, landmarks, railways, shopping zones or historical structures.
  • People parking, standing, or loitering in the same area day after day (night after night) with no apparent reasonable explanation. 

If you see something suspicious near the garrison, record your observations as best as you can. Don’t hesitate to report it to the military police:

*If observed in your local community, report it to the nearest police station by calling 112.

For questions or concerns regarding the USAG Benelux’s antiterrorism program, please call:

Story by the USAG Benelux Antiterrorism Office