Al-Qaeda may hit airlines below the knees

Dec 10, 2003 12:00 PM

The Department of Homeland Security has issued a warning that the al-Qaeda terror network could use clothing --namely, socks -- and other personal items in potential attacks against airliners.

The department issued its warning Wednesday after being tipped off about a pair of suspicious socks. "This is an example of when we've learned about a potential al-Qaeda tactic, we passed them on," Brian Roehrkasse, a department spokesman said. "We had information about potentially somebody using a sock, and it was prudent for us to put that information out to the security professionals."

ABC News reported Friday that British authorities were examining a pair of blue socks, which reportedly contained some components of an explosive device that could be used to strike an airliner.

Sajid Badat, 24, was arrested by British officials last week on suspicion of terrorism. Badat has been charged with conspiring with so-called "shoe bomber" Richard Reid, who attempted to blow up a commercial airliner.

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