Motives and Tactics of Terrorist Groups (From Symmetry and Asymmetry of Global Adversary Behavior - Proceedings, P 61-69, 1984, Barbara G Curtis, ed. - See NCJ-97172)

• NCJ Number: 97178
• Author(s): O B Revell
• Date Published: 1984
• Length: 9 pages
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/; NCJRS Photocopy Services
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Available on microfiche as NCJ-97172.

Annotation

Terrorist groups generally have political motivations and most often use bombings as a tactic.

Abstract

Terrorist groups include both subnational groups, which seek political change within their own nations, and state-sponsored groups, which governments or governmental factions support as an instrument of state policy. Domestic terrorist elements in the United States include both left-wing and right-wing groups. Tactics include bombings, kidnappings, assassinations, hijackings, and robbery to obtain funds and material for political purposes. Bomb types include letter bombs, pipe bombs, and firebombs. Targets are usually individuals or institutions that represent state interests and include government buildings, officials, or any state-sponsored activity. Terrorist groups want recognition for their acts to gain media coverage and spread their causes. Assistance to these groups takes the form of monetary donations, material, and propaganda support. The FBI's Terrorism Program was elevated to national priority status in 1982. It includes both preventive and reactive efforts. The Department of Justice is currently proposing legislation designed to combat terrorism further. The efforts of the FBI and other law enforcement agencies is partly responsible for the 1983 decline in terrorist incidents. Arrests of terrorists and the establishment of task forces composed of FBI and local law enforcement personnel have been among the accomplishments. Descriptions of international and domestic terrorist groups are included.