Crisis Management
Crisis Management
Crisis Management
CRISIS MANAGEMENT
TYPES OF CRISIS
MAN-MADE CRISIS - civil disturbances - strike, riot,
demonstration - revolt such as mutiny and insurrection - revolution, border
incident - war: conventional or nuclear – crimes: kidnapping, hijacking,
hostage-taking, etc
NATURAL CRISIS - fire, floods, earthquake, tidal waves -
marine/air disaster, hazardous spills, power failure, nuclear accidents -
water/food shortage/scarcity, drought - volcanic eruption, epidemic, etc.
INDIVIDUAL CRISIS – It refers to the feeling that arises when a
person faces unpleasant situation such as frustrations and conflicts. This
includes:
1. Physical Crisis – those that are related to health problems or
bodily sickness/sufferings.
2. Economics Crisis – the deprivation of the basic necessities of life
like food and material things.
3. Emotional Crisis – when an individual is affected by negative
feelings like emotional disturbances, fear, etc.
4. Social Crisis – the experiencing lack of interest, confidence and
social skills to relate meaningful, harmonious relationship with
others.
5. Moral Crisis – the person has an irrational or distorted concepts of
what is right or wrong, lack of moral values and integrity of the
person.
6. Psychosexual Crisis – failure of the person to assume ones sex
role and identity as a man or woman. The person has an
inappropriate sex objective, inadequate and distorted expression
of affection.
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NATIONAL POLICY
The Philippines subscribed to all international conventions and
initiatives against terrorism and will participate in all endeavors designed to
strengthen international cooperation in order to prevent and neutralize terrorist
acts.
PNP/AFP POLICY
The PNP/AFP shall be guided by the national policy on terrorism and
will strictly implement it. The use of peaceful means shall always be employed.
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The AFP will not compromise nor make concessions to terrorist even if
involves the personnel or property. The AFP will act promptly, decisively and
effectively, choosing from the whole range of military actions appropriate to the
circumstances.
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2. PREVENTION - This pro-active phase considers
counter measures as part of the total system of
operation. Such counter measures involves the
following;
Operation Security – a counter intelligence
measure where all aspect of awareness and
training must be considered to prevent threat
groups from learning the units plans methods of
operations. It also refers to measures taken in
conducting operations or activities in secure and
effective manner.
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SUPPORT UNIT – It is a unit that provides the necessary
administrative, operational and logistic support of the OSC.
1. Intelligence Team – responsible for the collection and processing
of all information needed by the OSC.
2. Communication Team – responsible for insuring effective
communication between OSC and other units or sub-units.
3. Logistic Team – responsible for ensuring mess services, supplies
(clothing, equipment, transportation) and other logistic services.
4. Medical Team – responsible for all medical supplies and services
in cases of crisis incidents.
5. Fire Fighting Team – responsible for all services related to
extinguishing fires intentionally set by perpetrators or during the
result of operations.
6. Administrative Personnel – personnel assigned to OSC to keep
written records of events, in coming or outgoing communications.
7. Legal/Investigation Team – services of investigation,
preservation of evidence, documents and legal advice to the OSC.
NEGOTIATION UNIT – It is headed by a chief negotiator and composed of two
or more members. Their primary concern is to serve first life, prevent
destruction and pave the way for a peaceful resolution of crisis situations.
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OSC discusses the incident with his commander and staff and
decides on the plans and actions to be taken.
Negotiation – chief negotiator undertakes negotiation
as soon as he has been properly briefed and received
appropriate instruction from the OSC. He shall keep
the OSCP informed of the progress of negotiations
and shall take instructions only from the OSC. No
further negotiation shall be under take when the
tactical unit commander initiates tactical operations.
Tactical Action – the tactical commander makes a
complete estimate of the crisis situation and plans his
courses of action upon arrival at the scene while
negotiation is in progress. He shall maintain and
continuous contact with the OSCP. He shall take over
authority on reaction element throughout the tactical
operations. He shall take instructions only from the
OSC and coordinate all support requirements with the
OSCP.
3. The Post Action Stage - This stage begin as soon as the
perpetrator surrendered, captured or neutralized. OSC shall
ensure that the following are accomplished:
Protection of the incident scene
Investigation of the incident preservation of evidence
Documentation
SS – witnesses, hostage, perpetrators and other key
participants of the incident.
Recovered, documented, preserve evidences
Pictorials, written reports
Filing and prosecution of cases
Damage Compensation and rehabilitation
He also initiates recommendation for the compensation and
provide assistance to civilian killed and injured during tactical operations. He
initiates recommendation for the rehabilitation, construction of damage or
essential infrastructures.
Training and re-training of unit personnel special units and
negotiators shall continue with their training to improve their proficiency and
enhance their readiness.
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CONCERNS OF CRISIS MANAGEMENT
TERRORISM
Terrorism is …
a threat or actual use of force or violence for political or
other purpose, to foster fear, insecurity, distrust, and unrest
among a specific group or the general population.
“Violence for effect… not primarily, and sometimes not all for
the physical effect on the actual target, but rather for its
dramatic impact on an audience.”
“The calculated use of violence or the threat of violence to
attain goals, often political or ideological in nature”.
“Is violent criminal behavior designed to generate fear in the
community, or a substantial segment of it, for political
purposes.
Classification of Terrorist
1. National Terrorist - A terrorist who operates and aspires to
political power primarily within a single nation.
2. Transnational Terrorist - This is a terrorist who operates across
national borders, whose actions and political aspirations may affect
individual of more than one nationality.
3. International Terrorists - A terrorists who is controlled by, and
whose actions represent the national interest of a sovereign state.
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4. Pathological Groups – problematic individuals who are grouped
together for some terrorist activities for emotional satisfaction.
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As to group security, government forces attempt to destroy terrorist
group or keep them in defensive position to discourage them from mobilizing
new to be extremely covert.
Terrorist Operation
1. Covert and well executed.
2. Carried out by specially well-trained and organized clandestine
elements.
3. Weapons – basic arms and explosives but continue to seek
advance weaponry.
4. Training – they are trained on subversion, weaponry, negotiation
practices and espionage.
5. Members of clandestine elements are of above average
intelligence.
Methods of Operations
1. They operate in small bands
2. They carry light automatic weapons, grenades, basic explosives,
ammunitions and communication equipment.
3. They mask their activities with the local populace.
4. Team includes assaults and security elements.
5. Leaders serve as negotiators.
6. They watch out for counter intelligence measures of the
government forces.
7. In hostage taking, hostages are usually separated in safe houses
to prevent communications and escape, planning, and intelligence
gathering.
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they use negotiation to gain publicity.
Negotiation- often requires inter-government negotiations at
the highest level.
When government failed to give demands, they initiate more
terrorists
4. Post incident Phase
they learn from their failures and success
terrorist re-groups, criticize and give critique about the
operation.
TERRORIST TACTICS
BOMBING
Delivery to target is done through:
1. Vehicle Bomb-booby traps with attached devices
2. Laid Charges-bomb plates
3. Projected bombs-launched from riffles by a mortal device
4. Postal/mail bombs
Activation means:
1. Command activation by leads, pull wire or mechanism
2. Action by the subject/top pressure device, light sense
electric switch
3. Time delay clock/burning chemical delay
ARSON - This is use to destroy or to disrupt public utilities, political HQs and
industrial facilities.
HIJACKING - Hijacking and skyjacking are commonly used by terrorists. The
hijack supply, ammunitions, fuel cargoes, and vehicles to provide them to gain
entry to a close military area, skyjacking of commercial aircraft to gain publicity
or to ask demands.
ASSASSINATION - The oldest but the commonly used terrorist tactic where
targets are often police or military officials or political features and they always
claim responsibility of assassination.
AMBUSH - This is a well-planned, well thought-out, properly rehearsed and
precisely executed operation. The terrorist has time on his side and will spend
considerable time preparing for an operation. Terrorist have an advantage in
that they can choose the time and place of operation.
KIDNAPPING - Kidnapping for ransoms is the most common form of this tactic.
The victim is normally confined in a secret hideout and kidnappers make
material demands.
HOSTAGE TAKING - The hostage-taker confronts the authorities and openly
holds the victims for ransom. His demands are more than just material in
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nature. Political concessions are the frequency demanded in exchange for the
hostage lives.
ROBBERIES/EXTORTIONS - Terrorist operations are expensive. To help
finance their activities, terrorists rob banks and armored vehicles carrying large
sums of cash. Bank robberies are also used as graduation exercises for
terrorist training programs and viewed as a tactical operation. The conduct
reconnaissance, plan escape routes and operates in the high degree of
efficiency and the progressive taxation scheme of the CPAA/NPA is a form of
extortion through coercion or use of force against the victim or his property.
TERRORIST TARGETS
1. MILITARY/POLICE
command and control facilities
logistic/storage facilities
computer facilities
explosives, sensitive weapons, arms and ammunition
depots
2. ENGINEERING AND ENERGY SYSTEM
hydroelectric plants
offshore oil rigs
nuclear facility sites
gas pipelines
dams and electric power lines
3. COMMUNICATION AND SUPPLIES
communication lines and facilities
chemical storage sites
dock facilities
equipment warehouse
computer facilities
4. TRANSPORTATION
rail lines and cars
bus depots
airports and aircraft
trucking and facilities
shipyards and ships
mainland routes and bridge
5. HUMAN
members of the diplomatic crops
government officials
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corporate executives
police and military forces
dependents/close relatives of the above
6. VULNERABILITIES - Vulnerabilities are the weaknesses the
installation security and high risk targets with in such installation.
These vulnerabilities are normally identified through security
surveys and inspections conducted periodically or on the spot
intelligence and security unit’s staffs.
The analysis of the threat to certain installation is based on information
with both static and dynamic dimensions.
STATIC DIMENSIONS – terrain, nationality of population,
major industry in the area, location of installation, mission of
the installation
DYNAMIC DIMENSIONS - assignment of personnel,
security measures used relations with civilian security,
demonstrations within post location
DYNAMIC DIMENTIONS THAT ARE HARDLY
CONTROLLABLE – weather, activities of hostile groups,
economic conditions, local law enforcement, off post
demonstrations
The vulnerability of installations can be determined to some extent
through the consideration of the following factors:
Installation characteristics and its attractiveness as a target
for the terrorist acts.
status of training personnel
availability of communications
non-military law enforcement resources
time and distance from military installation able to lend
assistance
geographic region
proximity to foreign borders
access to installation
terrain
HOSTAGE SITUATION
This is termed as crisis by the law enforcement officers and
behavioral professionals. This situation exist when one or more individuals are
held captive by other person or persons against their will for purposes of
demanding material things or due to behavioral maladies. Criminal type
hostage takers may direct their demand towards the government or to other
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private individuals. Mentally or emotionally disturbed may take hostages out of
nothing or due to uncontrollable forces.
In dealing with hostage situations, the priorities are to 1) preserve
lives, 2) apprehend the captors, and 3) recover or protect properties.
Negotiators should be prepared for this kind of situation since it will take them a
long period of time to contain the situation. According to experts, a hostage
taking may last for an hour to more than forty hours. Hostage takers and
hostages and even the negotiators become tired and stressed out of the long
period of crisis intervention. Hostages become impatient waiting for their safe
release or rescue. With this, there is a great possibility of the birth of the
Stockholm’s Syndrome. This is characterized by transference of attention
between the captors and captives. The hostage towards his captors may
generate positive feelings.
Negotiators can have enough time to contain and isolate the
scene. The initial state of high emotion is given time to subside and rational
thinking to return. The lives of the hostages become more secure as the holder
realizes the value of their continued safety; and fatigue will set in and alertness
will fade.
It was research by experts that passage of time is in favor of the
hostages and to the negotiators. In the first hour of the situation, the hostage
taker is at rage and tension is at peak. As time passes mental, emotional and
physical fatigue will be increased and will operate against the hostage taker. As
this happen, the above-enumerated benefits of slowing time operate.
Mentally Disturbed
This group suffers from different kinds of psychological maladies.
They may or may not in touch with reality. A mentally disturbed individual may
be a loner, act in accordance with an non existing irresistible force, or on a
false belief or a stimuli (Cooper, 1981). Symptoms may include such things as
dramatic and sudden changes of behavior, loss of memory, mistreatment of a
loved one, a sudden, impulsive act of theft, extreme depression, or anxiety that
is out of proportion to the circumstances that appear to be causing the anxiety.
The individual may talk to himself of hear voices, or he may be
displaying dangerous behavior without any apparent reason. Mentally or
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emotionally disturbed individual may be in a very docile mood for a while and
become extremely violent without any apparent cause (Adams).
A patrol officer is usually the first person to respond to a crisis
situation before the crisis team arrives. In some instances where Crisis
Management Teams (CMT) is not available, he usually starts and event
finalizes the job. Police officers are empowered to bring the mentally and
emotionally disturbed individuals to the psychiatrist for evaluation and
treatment.
Paranoid Schizophrenics
To begin with the different kinds of mental disorder, we must first
understand the different topics associated with this. Below are items of
information discussed in the book of Adams that serve as a guide to a police
officer who will respond to a hostage situation involving mentally disturbed.
Psychosis is a gross and persistent falsification of conventional
reality that leaves the person unable to manage conventional reality with any
degree of effectiveness. Psychosis has two major components.
Delusion is the faulty belief that is motivated primarily by the
individual’s needs and wishes and in fact, has no basis. Hallucination is
manifested in a visual image that is quite vivid and real to the individual who
experiences it.
Paranoia is a set of fixed delusional beliefs that are accompanied
by clear and orderly thinking outside the delusion system. Paranoia manifests
itself. A paranoid has been described as “vigilant suspicious, distrustful,
insecure, and chronically anxious”. There are two types of a paranoid individual
as:
The True paranoid or the Classical paranoid as psychologists
prefer, may be of high level of intelligence and so persuasive that he will
successfully recruit other persons to help him in his war against enemy.
Individual with Paranoid Reaction do not handle the problem in as much logic
or intelligence as the true paranoid.
Schizophrenia is a thinking disorder. Expert says that,
approximately 80 percent of the mentally ill of the population are schizophrenic.
There are subcategories of this kind of mental disorder, the catatonic state and
the hebephrenic state. Catatonic state is demonstrated by the patient’s rigidly
held position for some interminable period of time, while Hebephrenic state is
when the subject acts childlike and silly.
The signs and symptoms of the schizophrenic condition may
appear in three (3) different ways such as the following:
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1. The subject’s language may be rambling and tangential; he
may make up meaningless rhymes, or echo anything he
hears;
2. The subject may show his split personality incongruent
between his expressed ideas and emotional responses. This
indicates that two thought operate simultaneously.
3. The subject may isolate or alienate himself from the rest of
the society and pull himself into his personal shell
(Schizotype personality).
Neurosis is suffered by a person if most likely to be observed in a
continuous state of anxiety. Erratic behavior would more than likely be
displayed by reaction to anxiety in the form of ego defense mechanism such as
rationalization, projection or displacement. The signs and symptoms are
shaking uncontrollably and depression without explanation.
In general, they are characterized by being out of touch with reality
and being recognized by their false belief. Hostage taking is done in order for
them to carry out plans from someone who compels them to do. Their routine
is to accomplish something but there is no accomplishment. Most of the
paranoid schizophrenics are in conflict and with difficulty in coping even in a
minimal stress situation.
Male paranoid may have problems with gender identity and
religious beliefs. It is so noted that frustration and conflict is involved. When
these two combines, severe anxiety will surface that makes a person so
sensitive and volatile. Lack of interpersonal trust, religious conviction, and
sexual dysfunction, persecutory beliefs about family or significant individuals or
even distrust to the negotiator or police may lie in the person’s behavior. This
variety of issues may cause the negotiation difficult and dangerous (1986).
The first thing a negotiator should do is to keep the dialogue at an
even pace. Since paranoid schizophrenics are out of touch with reality, it is a
must that the hostage taker should be kept calm enough to stay in touch with
reality while the negotiation process is going on. A good negotiation strategy is
suggested below:
1. Reduce anxiety at the same time create a problem solving
atmosphere
2. Do not trick the captor
3. Accept the statement as true but do not agree
4. Do not convince that he is wrong
5. Emphatic understanding is needed
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Manic depressive personality
Depressed individuals are in an incapacitated mental state. He
may frequently know the hostages and the latter might be the cause of his
depression. Negative outlook in life, feeling unworthy, slow speech, suicidal
and unpredictable and extremely dangerous are the characteristics of this type
of mentally disturbed. To a one who is a suicidal type, he might inflict harm or
even kill one of the hostages and the police will be forced to shoot him (Strentz,
1984).
When dealing with this kind of mentally disturbed hostage taker,
the negotiator must be:
1. Firm and manipulative
2. Understanding and be supportive
3. Able to induce subject to talk about something positive
Inadequate personality
This is a type of person that displays attention-seeking behavior.
Hostage taking is his action to prove himself or his worth. During the
commission of the crime, he tends to delay his actions and be caught in
flagrante in order for him to prove himself (“I’ll show them”). His characteristics
are homicidal, loser complex, maybe fired from many jobs and are in touch with
reality. Though they are emotionally disturbed, yet they are apologetic to their
behavior (“I’m sorry but I have to do this to prove that I can be a good
worker…”).
The negotiator should be aware that those statements mean that
it’s either murder or physical harm to the hostages. It is but wise to present
problem solving alternatives so that the hostage taker will not feel that he has
failed again. The person needs acceptance and understanding. An initial action
is to offer promises that can be kept and do not allow relatives in the scene.
Anti-social personality
Those who belong to this kind of personality are repeatedly having
conflict with the people around them and notably having a deviant behavior
from groups, social values and or individuals. They defend their face from
embarrassment by blaming others in the form or rationalization. Anti-socials,
when takes hostages, are generally engages in expressive acts and they are
likely to dehumanize the hostages and this is an indication that they are
dangerous individuals.
According to Lanceley, antisocial individuals did not internalize
moral values yet they know the consequences of their acts and they are
therefore considered or more likely to become a foe. These hostage takers are
only concerned for themselves indicating egotism. Though they are aware of
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the consequences of their acts, they feel no remorse and the negotiator must
be aware of this. At any time the hostage taker may consider his hostages as
burden and might harm or even end killing his hostages. A guideline of action
suggested is that the ego of the hostage taker is stimulated.
In this situation, the stimulus of this situation might be the hostages
and the negotiator must diverse the attention away from them. It is also
suggested that it is but wise not to refer or talk about hospitalization or
treatment during the crisis intervention as this might agitate the perpetrator if
they believe they might lose their freedom or is insinuated that they are crazy.
Since the hostage taker is a street and police wise, it is advisable not to use
trickery (Fusilier, 1981).
Terrorists
Terrorism throughout the world has been alarming for the past
decades and even at present. Countries around the world have been facing
terrorism problems either local or international groups. In the United States
alone, it has been reported that there are local terrorists sowing fear, insecurity
and unrest amongst the people. They create chaos through assassinations,
bombing, arson and other forms of malicious destruction of properties. (CMD,
AFP/PNP)
Though global terrorism is seemingly increasing and alarming, the
international law enforcement community is trying its best to address to this
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kind of problem. (The international police organizations, other law enforcement,
religious and civic organizations team up together in fighting these terrorists.)
Regardless of their cause, their terroristic activities are condoned
by most of the people.
Barricaded Criminals
This type might be robbers cornered by the police while in the act
of committing their crime (i.e. bank robbers). Either barricaded in a building,
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road block or on getaway cars. Hostages are may be employees, bystanders
or both caught in the process of escaping. The hostage taking is a
spontaneous reaction of the criminal when cornered. Some law enforcement
officers consider barricaded criminals as attention seekers, but others describe
then in the contrary as they avoid being identified. Their primary aim is to
escape safely taking with them the hostages as shield to prevent being shot by
the police. Usually barricaded criminals are engaged in instrumental acts as
they demand for material things such as getaway cars, firearms, money, and
safe escape.
Barricaded criminals may initiate bargaining negotiation as the
police closely monitor them. As earlier presented they might ask a safe conduct
pass for the release of the hostages, or they might ask for additional money or
getaway car and leave the hostages immediately. The negotiator, upon
gathering all the facts and assessment of the situation, including the mental
faculties, he may use his own discretion in the negotiation process, whether to
grant the demand or not
Prisoners
While most prisoners spend most of their time inside the
correctional institutions, some are concentrated on penal colonies under tight
guards and to those who are completely secluded inside their prison cells; they
are haunted by boredom, get tired and hostile. These may be due to the strict
implementation of house rules, favoritism and poor prison conditions (Lack of
recreational activities and inadequate facilities, poor structuring etc.).
These conditions may largely contribute to the occurrence of riots
and crisis [hostage taking] situations in our correctional institutions. Most
probably, the hostages are the prison authorities and staffs or even some of
the inmates. For some institutionalized individuals, hostage taking is their
means of effecting escape [hostages serve as their shield against assault of
authorities] to stay away from the harsh prison condition. Another group of
prisoner-hostage takers are those who do not consider escape but a rather
total improvement of the conditions and services of the prison institution.
Prisoners who initiate hostage taking may be involved on either
instrumental or expressive acts or both. Instrumental behavior involves those
situationally related, substantive and objective wants and commonly known as
the commodity goal of the hostage taker (Roloff and Jordan, 1992). An
example of this is the demand for prison condition as these are the causes of
the situation.
Additionally the first group almost has similar purpose to the
barricaded criminals as they inhibit instrumental acts or behaviors.
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The negotiation approach in this situation based on the acts
involved is bargaining approach. They need to be bargained with at the
soonest possible time as the lives of the hostages are in great danger. This is
possible, as the hostage taker believes that the hostages are the main cause of
the problem.
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1. Conflicts involve people who are interdependent which
means that each party cannot accomplish each own goals
without agreement from each party, and
2. Such conflicts involve rewards and costs from each other
This Social Exchange Theory is obviously focused in the
exchange of objects during the negotiation. In order that the negotiation is
successful, some authors of crisis management books claimed that the
communication approach involve the exchange of one set of resources for
others or known as bargaining.
Bargaining is a powerful tool to resolve a conflict provided that the
hostage takers focus on instrumental concerns or issues that is negotiable.
They are more likely to engage with the hostage negotiator in order to bargain
and resolve the crisis.
Van Zandt, Rogan and Hammer reviewed and made critique on
this approach and notes: “the type of situation law enforcement usually
encounter, often fall in several ways to match the requirements of instrumental
negotiation approach.”
First, crisis negotiation situation is not typically like others, more
common forms of instrumental dominated bargaining where the assumption is
that, the parties come with well thought out proposals and are willing to a
bargaining process. Crisis [hostage] situations involve high levels of anxiety
and uncertainty. They are characterized by a pronounced level of emotional
excitation precipitated by the hostage takers motives and enhanced police
response. Majority of hostage crisis occurs as a result of the mental and
emotional inability of the hostage takers to cope with life stressors. This
produces a situation where normative rational actor bargaining is generally
absent and its place exist an explosive dangerous and volatile set of interaction
dynamics where emotional excitation and relationship issues (e.g. control,
power, trust, liking and face) play a critical role.
Over all, the particular features of crisis situation discussed above
suggest that negotiators often face interaction dynamics that may not fully
explained by the instrumentality focused bargaining approach.
Expressive Negotiation Approach - This approach is mainly
focused on the emotional state of the hostage taker as a powerful tool to
resolving of crisis situation. Expressive negotiation approach came to existence
with the use of psychology, human relations theory and research. Both assume
that the nature and quality of interpersonal relationships play a large role in
resolving a conflict. The three (3) assumptions of the expressive negotiation
model are:
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1. Hostage has no instrumental value. This explains that the
hostage is a tool or device used in gathering audiences or
attracting attention (attention-seeking behavior) to the
hostage taker. The hostage taker may initiate a crisis to
demonstrate his ability to control others.
2. Both interactants have the interest to prevent the escalation
of the situation into violence or death. The hostage taker has
some minimal level of awareness that when he kills his
hostages, he will later suffer the consequences.
3. Hostage taker and negotiators are confronted with high level
of emotional excitation. Increased emotional arousal
prepares the perpetrator from reacting with fight or flight
response rather than a problem-solving mode.
In this approach, negotiators must be knowledgeable on ‘crisis
intervention therapy’; listening skills as it contributes a lot in decreasing anxiety
and a problem solving can emerge later during the negotiation process.
(Schlossberg, 1979, Van Zandt, Rogan and Hammer, 1998). In addition,
relationship development and confidence building strategies are viewed as
critical to resolution of crisis [hostage] incidents. The negotiator must have
enough training in listening, paraphrasing, and self-disclosure, open ended
questioning to reduce perpetrator’s anxiety.
Under intense stress, the Stockholm syndrome may likely to occur.
This phenomenon has been carefully studied and recorded by psychologists.
The impact of the incident stress on negotiator’s psychological well-being.
More so on unsuccessful negotiations. Negotiators should also deserve
attention like professional help. Explications of emotional and personality
disorders and their impact on crisis negotiation. Most of the hostage situations
are committed by paranoids, depressed, antisocial and inadequate personality
typologies. Hostage negotiations depend on the psychological characteristics
of the hostage taker and the identification of the effective communication
strategies when negotiating with perpetrators who exhibit behavioral patterns
consistent with specific mental and emotional disorders. This model of
negotiation is used to lessen the perpetrator’s emotional tension to give way for
a rational problem-solving atmosphere. (Hammer and Rogan)
Communication-based negotiation approach - This approach is
founded on an interactive assessment if the crisis [hostage] situation as it
unfolds and is created through the interaction of the negotiator and the
perpetrator. Therefore, communication based approach is an interactive
process wherein negotiators and hostage takers react to each message
behavior.
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In fundamental communications theory, communications is
composed of content and relational dimensions. Content dimension of
communication represents the instrumental focus of person’s message, while
the latter conveys the expressive features (as trust, power, and respect). There
are three (3) interaction concerns relative to the communication-based
negotiation approach, which may tend to escalate or deescalate the conflict.
(Hammer and Rogan)
1. Instrumental concerns; Hammer and Rogan notes:
“Instrumental message behavior arises in crisis negotiation
as the hostage takers and the negotiators bargain with one
another regarding with the incompatibility of their objective
concerns.” In this concern, there are two broad types of
issues involved, the substantive issues and non-substantive
issues or the situationally related and the situationally
unrelated respectively
2. Relational concerns - Relational message behavior
denotes when an individual’s concern is more on the nature
of the relationship to other individual. There are three (3)
core elements that represent relational message behavior.
Power- this concerns the degree of agreement
between the two interactants along a
dominance-submission dimension.
Trust- revolve around the degree to which each
party is willing to accept the premise that no one
shall be hurt or no act shall be detrimental to
self.
Affiliation- refers to belongingness and
acceptance between the perpetrator and the
negotiator (respect, liking and caring for the
well-being).
3. Identity concerns - Identity concerns refers to an
individual’s concern for self-presentation, reputation or face.
These are then important to both parties.
According to Tajfel’s Social Identity Theory as discussed by
Hammer and Rogan, personal and social identities are the two dimensions of a
person’s self-image and are best to be known by the negotiator when dealing
with conflict situation, noted as:
‘Personal identity is based on an individual’s unique perception of
his or her own attributes’ (The person perceives himself either
weak, strong, or intelligent).Hammer and Rogan also suggested
that a suicidal’s emphasis is on personal identity concerns, and
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‘…social identity consists of those characteristics and their
emotional significance that is attached to one’s membership in
social groups...’ (Nationality, gender, ethnicity, social group/cult).
Rogan and Hammer further discussed that face message behavior
varies along three (3) dimensions and the first denotes the locus of a
communicator’s interest (is the face message directed to one’s self or to
other?); Face valence is the second dimension, a behavior either to attack or
honor face. Finally, ‘face-honoring entails a dimension which relates to whether
the message behavior functions to proactively protect against potential future
threats to face or to retroactively restore perceived loss of face’.
When these three (3) dimensions are combined together, there are
six (6) types of face message behavior being produced:
1. Defend Self’s Face - This behavior is self-honoring and self-
directed messages. More often, the hostage taker uses this when
he is asked about the condition of the hostages and replied… (“I
don’t know but I think they’re all OK! “)
2. Attack Self’s Face - Is a behavior that tends to attack or is
directed to one’s self. The statement, (“I know this is my entire
fault…”) Fits to this behavior. The perpetrator directs criticism or
attacks to him when he fell remorse of his act and this usually
occur during the accommodation stage.
3. Restore Self’s Face - This is used to restore one’s
face/reputation. (“I’m not as crazy as you think…”) A hostage taker
with psychological maladies uses this face message behavior to
restore his reputation.
4. Restore Other’s Face - A face message behavior that is directed
towards the other party. (“You’re such an intelligent guy…”) or (”
You’ve got a lot of people who cares about you…”) the negotiator
tries to restore the perpetrators face by attempting to gain
cooperation and lessen the latter’s psychological burden.
5. Defend Other’s Face - Known as the traditional message
behavior utilized to protect other’s face from future attack or loss. (“
I know you can overcome these odds in your life…”). The
negotiator should defend the perpetrator and not the hostages to
increase sense of worth of the perpetrator.
6. Attack Other’s Face - This represents the traditional, more limited
view of face attack behaviors. (“These people cause me to do
this…”) When a negotiator shifts the blame to others, it does not
really mean that hostages are not prime importance. It is more
likely that the hostage taker fell sense of understanding and
belongingness. However, if the hostage taker is the one who uses
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this, he is trying to imply that the main causes of the situation are
the people involved [hostages].
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be misinterpreted by the hostages as they feel neglected. They will end up
sympathizing with their captors and uncooperative to their rescuers.
It should be corrected that providing assistance to the hostage
taker not a conclusion that Stockholm syndrome has occurred. Hostages may
carry the moneybag or the clerk opens the vault due to continue threat of the
hostage taker.
As Stockholm syndrome continue to develop among the hostages
and their captors, the latter will make increase awareness of the safety of the
hostages for fear of losing a shield. The negotiators and the hostages however
may benefit from this phenomenon since the safety of the hostages is
increased. This happens during the accommodation period as hostages may
tend to obey every command of their captors and the latter will decrease or
lessen the degree of security, control and the introduction of physical harm
among the hostages.
OPERATIONAL PROCEDURES
1. Stabilization and Containment
Establish Rapport: get to know the suspect
Operational Activities -clear area/scene of pedestrians,
required innocent persons to evacuate-this can be done,
throughout non-verbal language, gather information about
the suspect
submit initial report
request for additional resources, if needed
2. Consolidation and negotiation
Negotiation and qualities
civilian volunteer preferred depending upon the call of
incident
demonstrate sympathy without being emotionally
involved
ability to accept tension between conflicting views
maintaining self-control
possess moral courage and integrity
patient and good listener
should not be a decision maker
possess certain language skills or background which
will lend
insight into the psycho of the hostage taker
knowledge in psychology of aggressive human
behavior
ability to give minor rewards
ability to withhold rewards
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Steps in Negotiation
On Initial contact - avoid hostile or antagonistic
approach, introduce yourself-don’t use title or rank,
sell yourself-sincere and honest, instill trust and
confidence, minimize tension soonest
Development - drawing a psycho profile or hostage
taker, reinforce relationship establishment at initial
contact
Alternative steps
Climax stage
Termination
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KIDNAPPING FOR RANSOM
KIDNAP FOR RANSOM is a criminal act, particularly described as
the unlawful taking and carrying away a person by force or fraud and against
his will, or in any manner depriving him of his liberty for the purpose of extorting
ransom as payment for the release. KIDNAP FOR RANSOM is a common term
used describes a specific criminal act under ART. 267 of the RPC entitled
“Kidnapping and serious illegal detention.”
KIDNAPPING, in general, poses a serious threat to the peace and order
condition of the country. Focus of concern, however, falls on so-called kidnap
for ransom case, because they exist a heavy tall not only on their victims and
the victim’s families, but also on society as a whole. This is so because kidnap
for ransom is by nature a syndicated crime perpetrated by professional
criminals groups capable of planning their nefarious trade that even a single
gruesome act of kidnapping expertly pulled by them could prove very alarming
to the public.
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After the call:
Make a written record of the Caller’s age/sex, Mental state (your assessment),
Peculiarity of speech (lips, accent), Exact words used
Try to take note of background noises and the audibility to telephone reception,
which may reveal the place where kidnappers is calling.
ASSASSINATION
It is the murder of prominent citizens particularly a head of a state
or high official in government or the killing an important person by violent
means, usually from political or religious motives.
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PROTECTION OF VERY IMPORTANT PERSONS (V.I.P.) IS BASED ON
SEVEN DIFFERENT METHODS
1. Physical Protection – This refers to the protection of the VIP and
the installation he uses through the physical presence of his
guards.
2. Secrecy – Information about the VIP, which might be important to
the adversary, will be kept from him.
3. Deception – The publishing of deceptive information concerning
the actions of the VIP.
4. Control – Control over the persons coming into the contact with
the VIP over the object sent to him.
5. Intelligence – The gathering of the adversary’s intentions as to as
assault upon the VIP.
6. Instruction – The VIP and his Colleagues have to coach as to the
necessary precautionary measures.
7. Neutralization of Suspects – Neutralization of people who are
suspected of trying to liquidate the VIP. A good system of
protection will use all of the above mentioned methods. It is not
always necessary to use them at the same time, but generally, it
will be necessary to employ most of them in order to ensure and
efficient protection.
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Security planning should be flexible. Weather conditions and
mechanical failures (including failure if lighting) are two ever-present potential
hazards. The unexpected arrival of a large number of visitors is another
situation frequently encountered. Last minute changes in the schedule of
events occur on occasion. The security must be sufficient trained to cover
these and many more eventualities.
Central direction and unity of effort are of special importance
because of the nature of this assignment. The officer-in-charge should be
designated with full responsibility for all phases of the security mission. Close
coordination must be established with all local military, police and civilian
authority. The security’s responsibility for each phase must be clearly defined.
Arrangements should be made for the local civilian police to control local
inhabitants. All available intelligence channels should be utilized for information
of potential danger areas.
CROWD CONTROL
The protective personnel should understand the principles of
crowd control. They should not show prejudice, sympathy, or become involved
in the grievances of the crowd. When force is necessary, the protective force
should move with speed and surprise. At the first sign of disorder all leaders
should be apprehended. The real troublemakers are usually to the rear of the
crowd. Protective forces should not be fooled or deterred by mob leaders who
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arouse and use women and children in front ranks to shield themselves from
aggressive action by the protective personnel. The crowd’s retreat should
never be hindered, it should be moved in the direction where there is no space
to disperse.
PROTECTIVE TECHNIQUES
PROTECTION WHILE RIDING IN VEHICLES – The selection of
security trained driver and the type of vehicles to be used should be given
thought, then a closed car provided with greater concealment and therefore
better protection for the dignitary recommended. Route survey should be
conducted in advance before actual travel and protective details should be
equipped with radio communication processing encoding-decoding
“scrambling” capabilities. All auto motive equipment should be excellent
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mechanical condition and should be regularly inspected for signs of tampering
and bullet proof if possible. The driver should be well trained and reliable.
Vehicles must be secured at all times during security missions. Escort vehicles
should precede the protected vehicle. The security vehicle should follow the
protected vehicle as closely as possible consistent with driving safety. An
advance car should precede the convoy by approximately one-half kilometer to
observe hazards and reports on unusual conditions. A reserve vehicle should
follow the convoy as a short distance from the rear for use in emergency. The
escort follow-up and all security vehicles should maintain radio contact.
Whenever possible, a member of the security detail is placed in the protected
person’s vehicle. In extreme conditions, when greater security is necessary,
one or two dummy vehicles, carrying individuals who are similar in appearance
to the protected person, may be included in the convoy. Fixed post and
bridges, underpass, and traffic stops must be secured when deemed
necessary. An alternate route should be arranged for emergency requirements.
Unless indicated by competent security the convoy will confirm with the local
traffic regulations. Evaluation of such situation is made to determine the degree
of security, which is practical and necessary.
TRAVEL BY TRAIN – Generally, the greatest potential security
hazard exists at the points where the escorted person boards or leaves the
train. Usually this is a congested area with numerous individuals carrying all
sorts of bags, packages, and containers. In the study of assassination
techniques, the large number of attempts in this location is not worthy. When
possible the area should be closed to the public or the dignitary’s party, it
should be attached to the rear of the train where feasible. The members of the
security detail should be in control of all entrances of the car. When the train is
stopped, they assume position covering all avenues of approach to the car. If
the protected person leaves the train for a temporary period constant security
should be maintained on the train until the protected person returns and the
train departs. Prior coordination should be made with railway officials for exact
scheduling of stop en route. Railroad security and local police at scheduled
stops can be contracted for standby assistance. When deemed necessary
advance and rear guard train may be placed on the other cars of the train,
seated among passengers, as an additional safeguard.
TRAVEL BY AIR – Normally, a special plane is placed for
transporting the dignitary and his official party. The technical safety factors,
such as clearance of operating personnel and control of flight, are
responsibilities of the operating agency when performed by military forces. The
most dangerous periods, as in train, movements are boarding and departure
times. All structures offering observation of the boarding shall be adequately
secured either by closing of when not used or by strategic placement of
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security detail. When a large crowd is expected for takeoff ceremonies,
barricades and uniformed military or police force in sufficient numbers should
be included in the planning. The plane designated for the important person
should be kept away from contact with the plane. When the designation is
another base, advance arrangements should be made with the Air Force Office
for additional security and transportation is normally scheduled for the
important person and his party. It should not be forgotten however, that
arrangements must be made for the accompanying security personnel.
TRAVEL BY SMALL WATERCRAFT – When planning for a
cruise, the boats selected should be of types and sizes capable of withstanding
weather and surf conditions that may be encountered. A thorough inspection of
the boat designated for the protected person should be made in conjunction
with responsible ship personnel. The inspection is primarily for unauthorized
persons stowing away for any suspicious objects or packages. An additional
check should be made for adequate lifesaving and emergency facilities.
Security personnel should be alert for either crafts approaching the dignitaries’
boat. When feasible, arrangements should be made for a boat to follow the
protected person’s boat.
PROTECTION WHILE WALKING – One of the best protective
measures is varying the selection of walking times and routes. The security
detail accompanying the dignitary should be positioned to cover all avenue of
access, additional security personnel should cruise in the immediate vicinity.
Local police agencies can be of special value in adding background security in
these instances.
PROTECTION AT PUBLIC ASSEMBLIES – A careful search and
inspection of the area should be made at the time protection is established. A
physical defense zone should be set up immediately around the dignitary, and
additional concentric defense area should be added to the greatest possible
extent. Protection in the defense zone is provided by protective personnel,
permanent or temporary type barricades, and a combination of the above
techniques. Screening points to admit passage of authorized persons and
materials should be established. Observant and inconspicuous personnel
should be patrolled among the crowd. Maximum use should be made of
security aid such as flood and spot lights, communications, emergency
equipment, special weapons, locks, barricaded areas, and helmet proof
equipment, and materials.
PROTECTION WHILE IN A RESIDENCE – The protective detail
should occupy at least one protective ring. At least two additional areas should
be established in the outer perimeter. There must be a pass system for the
staff and frequent visitors. Food suppliers should be checked and food
selection and handling should be controlled, Mail and packages should be
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fluoroscope. Periodic inspection should be done on premises for safety
hazards, lethal devices such as bombs, traps and sufficiency of security
equipment. Adequate communication should be maintained, and all possible
emergency situations should be considered.
PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS
The nature of the Assassin - The assassin is a discontented
individual who decides to kill the person whom he thinks is responsible for his
difficulties. He attempts to gain advantage by the use of surprise. A well-trained
protective force that he is likely to be caught does not discourage him.
Assassins do not have distinct features. They are not concerned about death.
Many of them suffer from mental disorders. A mentally unbalanced person is
not necessarily stupid and as a matter of fact they can be ingenious.
Assassination of VIP normally features the following:
1. The location of victim at a given time will be known in
advance by the assassin.
2. The assassin with his weapon will choose a position giving
him access to his victim.
3. The protection detail will be attracted by some diversionary
interest or otherwise inattentive.
Break down of planning
BEFORE: Plan must be extensive and thorough as follows: Plan
should be in writing. Plan should be specific-complete for each post and for
each person involved. Plan should be simple to understand and easy to
execute. Plan should be carefully read and committed to memory. Coordination
among the different agencies must be laid out. Details and schedule of activity
contemplated should be in advance. Define and establish the defense area.
Number of personnel should be determined. The accessory equipment should
be itemized and the distribution shown. Means of communication
DURING: Protective force should function as a team. The aim
should be that nothing occurs that might jeopardize the safety of the VIP.
AFTER: Summarize things that happened in the operations.
Evaluate individual performance; bring out the weak points and suggestions for
improvements. Encourage individual members to discuss their particular
assignments. Encourage group discussions. Central summarization with
outlook on succeeding operations.
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BOMBING
(Incident Awareness)
IS BOMBING A SERIOUUS SOCIAL PROBLEM? Bombing is a
very serious social problem as when a bomb explodes, casualties and
destruction of property is very essential. When bomb incidents occur, people
are affected directly and indirectly. Work stoppage (evacuation), tension, fear
or panic is felt by the people within the area. Even if a person is not directly
affected, just hearing or reading the news about such incidents can make him
apprehensive. Also, some people could take the chance, as leverage to scare
or threaten would be victims for some reasons like extortion or just for pranks.
Bomb incidents include bomb threats and actual bombings. It can happen
anywhere and anytime. With the recent advancement of science and modern
day technology, bombs becomes more sophisticated, smaller in sizes, easy to
handle, easy to plant, easier to transport but with more devastating effect.
The tactics common to terror groups is bombing. Of all terrorists
incidents recorded. 70% were attributed to terrorist’s bomb. The bomb is a
popular weapon because it is cheap to produce, easy to make, has variable
uses and is difficult to detect and trace after the event. Investigations have
revealed that the targets for “terrorists bombing” are not selected at random.
The modus operandi for selecting the target and planting the explosives
appears to follow this pattern: The target is selected because of political or
personal gain to the terrorists. It is then kept under surveillance to determine
the entrances and exits most used.
Reconnaissance of the building is made to locate an area where a
bomb can be concealed, do the most damage and here the bomber is least
likely to be observed. A test or dry run of the plan is often made. After the dry
run and at a pre-determined time, the building is infiltrated by the bomber to
deliver the explosive or incendiary device. The device maybe partially pre-set
prior to planting. If it is fully set and charged, it is simple matter for one or two
of the group to plant the device in a pre-selected concealed area. This can be
accomplished in a minimum of time. If the device is not fully set and charged,
one member may act as lookout while others arm and place the device. Most
devices used for the destruction of property are usually of the time delay type.
These devices can be set for detonation to allow sufficient time for the bomber
to be at a considerable distance away before the bomb threat call is made or
the device is detonated.
EVACUATION
A number of factors may influence the decision whether or not to
evacuate. Threat assessment is the primary consideration. Also, the most likely
place for a device to be located is on the exterior of the building. Evacuation to
the outside of the building may increase the danger to personnel. The second
most likely places to conceal a device are those areas of accessibility to the
public, i. e., hallways, lobbies, and restrooms. Evacuation of personnel through
public areas may increase the hazard. Secondary assembly points should be
established in the event the device is located at/near the primary assembly
point.
An alternative to total evacuation is partial evacuation, which is effective
when the threat indicates the specific location of the device. Partial evacuation
requires a high degree of planning. Should a device be located, the area
around the item as well as the floors above and below the suspected item
should be evacuated immediately.
SEARCH PROCEDURES
1. WHAT WILL BE SEARCHED?
2. WHAT SEARCH TECHNIQUES WILL BE EMPLOYED?
3. WHO WILL SEARCH?
The search must be thorough, systematic, and quick. The bomb
threat plan should include floor diagrams and room search cards. These
expedite search, prevent duplication of effort, and prevent areas from being
overlooked. The building search should start simultaneously at four places; the
exterior search, public search area, the detailed room search, and the garage
search. The search starts at the lowest part of the building, i.e. basement,
garage, or bottom floor. As the exterior search and public area search teams
complete their tasks, they will supplement the detailed room search teams in
progress. Two-person teams have proven most effective in searching must
areas. Exceptions would be for search or very large areas such as parking
garages and auditoriums.
Except for the most unusual circumstances for VIP and or
presidential technical security measures, eod/bomb squad and military/police
will not be used to search for reported explosive device in community areas,
building and offices. Rather, such searches must be conducted by designated
individuals familiar to the area and its contents. If an unusual item is found, eod
is to neutralize and evacuate the device for disposal. Law enforcement
DAMAGE REDUCTION
Damage control techniques include standby of fire and medical
services; disconnection of gas, fuel, and electrical power; evacuation of
personnel; and venting by opening doors and windows to minimize blast
damage, and use of blast attenuation techniques.
REMOVAL
Removal of an improvised explosive device or a suspect item is an
eod function. Under certain conditions where evacuation is impossible or bomb
disposal personnel are not available, it may be necessary for someone to take
steps to remove the ied to an exterior holding area or to neutralize the device.
It must be understood that these procedures should be used ONLY AS A LAST
RESORT AND ONLY ON THE APPROVAL OF THE SENIOR OFFICIALS IN-
CHARGE.
DETONATION
If a detonation occurs, it may be necessary to organize rescue
teams, first-aid personnel, and the site security personnel. Likewise course of
action taken must be done such as:
1. secure and control access to the compound/and or building
2. control and extinguish fires
3. search area for secondary explosive device
4. supply immediate first-aid, remove dead and injured from
the area
5. secure entire blast scene, including area suspected or
known to be the point of detonation
6. minimize disruption of the blast scene pending investigation.
Do not move or remove any evidence debris, bomb
components.
7. Photograph area including known or suspected point of
destruction
8. If building is safe to enter, shake down area to ensure all
classified materials
BOMB THREAT
It is a message delivered by any means, warning or claiming the
presence of one or more bombs. A bomb threat may or may not specify the
location of a bomb. It may or may not include the time of detonation/ignition. It
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may or may not contain an ultimatum related to the detonation/ignition or
concealment of the bomb. Reasonable explanations for receiving a bomb
threat:
1. The caller has definitive knowledge or belief that an explosive or
incendiary device has been or will be placed in an area and wants
to minimize personal injury or property damage.
2. The caller wants to create an atmosphere of anxiety and panic
which will in turn, possibly result in a disruption of normal activities
at the target area.
3. The caller wants to bring about or amplify a lack of confidence in
the existing leadership or programs.
4. Each threat received through any means of communication, should
be treated as real and must be thoroughly evaluated to safeguard
life and property. The following procedures apply to recipients of
the threat;
Telephone calls
1. A checklist of guidelines should be readily accessible (telephone
bomb threat report form)
2. Keep the caller on line as long as possible. Ask him to repeat the
message. Record every word spoken by the person.
3. If the caller does not indicate the location of the bomb or the time
of the possible detonation, you should ask him for this information.
4. Inform the caller that the building is occupied and the detonation of
a bomb could result in death or serious injury to many innocent
people.
5. Pay particular attention to peculiar background noises such as
motors running, background music and any other noises which
may give clue as to the location of the caller.
6. Listen closely to voice (male/female), voice quality (calm/excited),
accents and speech impediments, immediately after the caller
hangs up, you should report to the person designated by
management to receive such information. Since the law
enforcement personnel will want to talk first hand with the person
who received the call, he/she must remain available until they
arrive.
7. Report the information immediately to the police/fire/bomb squad
and other appropriate agencies or counter-action.
LOCATION OF BOMBS
1. The location of the bomb at the target site is usually determined by
three criteria:
2. The location must be accessible to entrances.
3. The location must be accessible to exits, but isolated enough for
the bomber to conduct his mission.
4. The location would also be as place where the most structural
damage to the building would occur.
Training
SWAT team officers receive special training. Large police
departments usually conduct their own training. Officers in small units receive
SWAT training from large units and from training centers. The federal
government also trains large and small SWAT teams. The FBI operates an
advanced training school at Quantico, Virginia. The U.S. Army and U.S. Marine
Corps also conduct training classes. During training, officers learn through
classes and field work. Officers learn about different weapons and practice
using them. Officers also receive other training. Many officers learn advanced
first aid. First aid is early medical help. Some officers learn to be
sharpshooters. A sharpshooter is a marksman skilled at hitting small or distant
targets. Some officers learn to handle and use tear gas. Tear gas is a gas that
causes a painful burning feeling in the eyes and lungs. Tear gases disable
suspects. Other officers learn communication skills. Communication is the
sharing of information. Communication allows officers to calm suspects by
talking to them.
Negotiator Teams
Negotiators are communication experts. They listen and talk to
suspects during police emergencies. Negotiators use words to reason with
suspects and solve problems. They often work on hostage situations. They try
to convince suspects to free their hostages and surrender. Surrender means to
give up peacefully. Negotiators have to be calm. They must think carefully
about each word they say. They do not want to upset a suspect. This could
cause a suspect to harm hostages. Negotiators may spend hours talking with
suspects. Sometimes they use phones and talk from a safe distance. Other
times they talk with suspects in person. In these cases, suspects will often talk
only if negotiators do not have weapons.
Containment Teams
Containment teams control and contain crime scenes. Contain
means to hold in. they make sure innocent people do not become involved in
situation. They also make sure that suspects do not escape. Containment
officers make observations and report what they see to their leaders.
Sometimes they have to shoot at suspects. Containment officers take different
positions at a crime scene. They choose locations that help them see what is
happening. Some may crouch on rooftops. Some may stand in doorways.
Others may take positions behind cars. Containment officers are patient. They
control their emotions while under pressure. Containment officers also think
carefully before they shoot. Careless shots could not hurt innocent people or
lead to deadly shoot-outs.
Entry Teams
Entry teams enter and search buildings. Their job is of find and
captures suspects in the buildings. They also try to locate and rescue
hostages. Sometimes entry team officers must secure crime scenes. This
means they prevent suspects from harming others or killing themselves. Entry
team officers also prevent suspects from escaping or destroying evidence.
Evidence is facts or objects that help prove guilt. Entry team officers can break
through locked or barricaded entrances quickly. Barricaded means blocked.
The officers use tools to break windows and push through doors. Quick entries
allow officers to catch suspects off guard. This makes entry operations safer.
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SWAT TEAMS OPERATIONS
All swat teams try to resolve police emergencies as quickly and
safely as possible. They want to capture suspects without harming the public,
hostages, or the suspects. SWAT teams work carefully during their operations
to reduce chances of harm or death. SWAT teams use different tactics to
reach these goals. They try peaceful tactics first.
Peaceful Tactics
Waiting is one peaceful tactics SWAT teams use. SWAT teams
sometimes wait for hours before they take more forceful action. Waiting gives
suspects a chance to think about what they are doing. SWAT teams try to
resolve police emergencies with peaceful tactics. It also suspects time to think
about what may happen to them. Sometimes suspects surrender after they
have time to think. Persuasion and negotiation are other tactics SWAT team’s
use. Persuasion is trying to change a person’s mind. Negotiation is talking to
reach an agreement. The goal of these tactics is to talk suspects into
surrendering without harming others. Many times, SWAT teams use other
tactics in combination with persuasion and negotiation. For example, teams
may cut the heat or air. They may constantly ring doorbells or call suspects on
the phone. These tactics make the suspects nervous. Sometimes they make
criminals more willing to surrender.
Forceful Tactics
SWAT teams change their tactics if more force is needed. They
use forceful tactics when negotiation and persuasion tactics fail. They also use
forceful tactics if the lives of hostages and officers are in danger. Forceful
tactics include the use of tear gas. Forceful tactics include using tear gas,
storming buildings, and attacking with sharpshooters. Tear gas is the least
forceful of these tactics.
Tear Gas
SWAT team officers often use tear gas as their first forceful tactic.
Officers shoot cans of tear gas through windows and doorways with tear gas
guns. The tear gas makes suspects’ eyes burn and swell. The suspects have
a hard time breathing in rooms filled with the tear gas. Tear gas often disables
suspects. This allows officers to arrest suspects safely. Other times, tear gas
forces suspects to surrender.
Entering a Building
Sometimes officers must enter buildings to try to capture suspects.
Entry teams meet at a staging area before entering a building. A staging area
is a safe area near a building that officers plant to enter. Entry team members
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check their equipment and weapons at staging areas. They also go over their
plans for entry. Next, the entry teams enter buildings. They must often break
through barricaded doors and windows. Once inside, officers search rooms
and hallways. They search until they locate suspects and hostages. Entry
team officers try to capture and disarm suspects. Disarm means to take away
a person’s weapons. Many times suspects surrender when they see entry
teams. Sometimes suspects shoot at the officers. The officers shoot back.
Entry team officers often turn captured suspects over to arrest teams. Arrest
teams arrest captured suspects. They make sure nothing goes wrong during
arrest. They may also help hostages out of buildings.
Special Weapons
SWAT team officers use special weapons. Many of the weapons
are powerful guns. At crime scenes, the weapons help the officers protect
themselves and capture suspects. But SWAT team members do not use their
weapons unless peaceful tactics fail. Different weapons are useful in different
situations. Some weapons are useful in short-range situations. Other
weapons are useful in long-ranger situations.
Shotguns
Sometime SWAT team officers use shotguns. A shotgun is a
powerful gun with a long barrel. Shotguns are mainly short-range weapons.
They may be single-shot or semi-automatic weapons. Shotguns fire large
bullets called shells. SWAT teams often use the Benelli M3 Super 90 shotgun.
This shotgun is a semi-automatic. It holds up to seven shells stored in a
magazine.
Submachine Guns
SWAT teams use submachine guns during shootouts with heavily
armed suspects. Submachine guns fire rapidly but are not easy to aim. SWAT
team submachine guns can fire single or multiple rounds. They fire multiple
rounds in short and long burst. A short burst is a quick series of two or three
rounds. A long burst is a quick series of four to eight rounds. Many SWAT
teams use the Heckler and Koch MP-5 submachine gun. Most MP-5 can fire
30 shots in just two seconds.
Standard Rifle
SWAT teams use different rifles in different situations. Rifle gives
officers dependable aim, firepower, and range. The M-16 is the standard
SWAT team rifle. The M-16 is light. This makes it easy to carry and use. The
M-16 has a dependable range of 50 to 200 yards (46 to 183 meters). Each
magazine for the M-16 holds up to 30 rounds. These features make the rifle
useful in many situations.
High-Powered Rifles
SWAT team officers use high-powered rifles for long-distance
shooting. Containment officers and sharpshooters use high – powered rifles to
improve their shots. High-powered rifles fire high-powered rounds. They are
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large rifles with long barrels. They have telescopes on them. A telescope is an
instrument that makes distant objects seems larger and closer. Telescopes
help sharpshooters aim their rifles. High-powered rifles have ranges up to
several hundred yards. Fifty-caliber rifles are the largest high-powered rifles
SWAT teams use. These rifles weigh up to 40 pounds (18 kilograms) and are
at least five feet (1.5 meters) long. The rifles shoot rounds powerful enough to
punch through metal and concrete. Officers use these rifles to shoot at
suspects inside buildings.
Uniforms
Many SWAT team officers wear black or dark blue uniforms.
During operations, the uniforms help SWAT team officers identify each other.
Sometimes SWAT team officers wear camouflage uniforms. Camouflage
uniforms have coloring that makes officers blend in with their surroundings.
Many camouflage uniforms are green and brown. These uniforms help officers
stay hidden from suspects.
Entry Tools
Entry team officers often need tools to get into barricaded
buildings. Basic tools include ropes and ladders. Tools can also include
battering rams, sledgehammers, and axes. A battering ram is a heavy metal
tube. Officers use battering rams to force open doors. Entry teams recently
started using small amounts of explosives. The explosives can blow holes in
doors and walls. But the explosives present little danger to SWAT team
members and suspects.
Helicopters
Some SWAT teams use helicopter. Helicopters carry SWAT
teams to emergencies located in hard to reach places like rooftops. Helicopters
also let officers examine crime scenes from the air. This helps them plan their
operations.