DHS agencies quick to react to new terror threat

The discovery of an alleged terror plot to blow up U.S.-bound planes has spurred Homeland Security Department agencies to shift gears quickly, bringing extra workers in for longer hours and diverting some from their usual responsibilities.

The plot was directed at flights from Britain to the United States, DHS officials said. "The terrorists planned to carry the components of the bombs, including liquid explosive ingredients and detonating devices disguised as beverages, electronic devices, or other common objects," DHS Secretary Michael Chertoff said.

British authorities have apprehended at least 24 people in relation to the plot.

In the United States, hundreds of DHS Border Patrol special operations officers were taken off their regular duties and moved to airports closest to the United States-Mexico divide to bolster security there. A management source with the Border Patrol told Government Executive that this would not, however, significantly decrease agents' presence on the border.

The Federal Air Marshals Service stepped up coverage of flights from the United Kingdom to the United States.

In Boston, Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney deployed the National Guard to Logan International Airport to help enforce new security measures.

Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa said he was "very proud of cooperation and information sharing between local officials and the Transportation Security Administration and the FBI. "We're all working closely together," he said.

Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley said his office was "closely coordinating" with federal officials, but warned airline travelers to "expect long delays at security checkpoints." TSA instructed additional employees to come to work to handle the volume of passengers and luggage they must now inspect with more caution. TSA confirmed that Customs and Border Protection officials are assisting with airport security.

"Staffing is something we will have to take into consideration," said TSA spokeswoman Amy Kudwa.

TSA has implemented new regulations prohibiting liquids in carry-on luggage, except baby formula and medicines.

On flights between the United States and England, liquids are prohibited even in checked baggage, as are electronic devices such as laptop computers and iPods. A complete list of what passengers are now permitted and not permitted to carry is posted on TSA's Web site. A TSA spokeswoman said the ban on liquids in carry-on luggage will continue indefinitely.

Chertoff and lawmakers praised DHS' quick response and deployment of backup security following the thwarting of the plot. Several legislators have expressed concern that faster action is needed to implement better bomb detection systems in the United States.

"This administration needs to move expeditiously to develop and install next-generation explosive detection technologies with the ability to detect lethal materials like those involved in the British plot," said Rep. Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., ranking member of the House Homeland Security Committee.