The Threat of Chemical/Biological Terrorism

The Threat of Chemical/Biological Terrorism

This publication by the Canadian Security Intelligence Service evaluates the threat of chemical and biological terrorism in the wake of the sarin gas attacks in the Tokyo subways.

1995

The high potential mortality of chemical and biological weapons makes them attractive to terrorists as small quantities can produce mass casualties. Other advantages include ease of acquisition or production, undetectability, incubation time, and inspiration of fear. The most likely biological agents are anthrax, botulinal toxin, and ricin. Experts believe a bacteriological agent would be chosen over a virus or rickettsial agent.