NCJ Number
192539
Journal
Jane's Intelligence Review Volume: 14 Issue: 1 Dated: January 2002 Pages: 18-20
Date Published
January 2002
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This analysis of Osama bin Laden’s Al-Qaeda terrorist network in Asia notes that its network of cells and support structures remains virtually intact both before and after September 11, 2001.
Abstract
In contrast, investigations and widespread arrests have significantly disrupted Al-Qaeda’s network in the United States, Europe, and East Africa. Al-Qaeda’s Asian network originated in the early 1990’s and grew rapidly, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, after Osama bin Laden moved from Sudan to Afghanistan in May 1996. The three developments that drove the formation of the Asian network were Al-Qaeda’s recruitment of Asian as well as Arab veterans of the Afghan anti-Soviet jihad, bin Laden’s campaign on a pan-Islamic platform that drew recruits from both Middle Eastern and Asian countries, and bin Laden’s development of links with two groups (Moro Islamic Liberation Front and Abu Sayyaf Group) that already had established terrorist and insurgent capabilities in the Philippines. The Al-Qaeda network in Asia provides logistical, training, and financial support for operations around the world. A considerable threat exists to non-Muslim countries in Asia and the Pacific, including Australia, New Zealand, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, and Japan. Muslim countries and countries with a substantial Muslim population could also be vulnerable. Al-Qaeda and affiliate groups have conducted bombings and other operations in several countries. Asian governments need to act decisively against Al-Qaeda and to take preemptive action against known Al-Qaeda members and supporters currently living in these countries. Additional needs include greater counterterrorism cooperation and coordination among Asian countries. Photographs