Hidden airport scanner will pinpoint terrorists
Scientists have developed a scanner that can pinpoint explosives and weapons hidden in the shoes, clothing and luggage of terrorists as they walk around airport terminals.
The system - created by researchers led by Professor Wuqiang Yang of Manchester University - can detect devices instantly. Moreover, it does not require travellers to take off their shoes or place luggage on conveyor-belt detectors. Instead, security staff will be able to spot terrorists with knives in their jackets or explosives in their backpacks as they move around the departure lounges.
News of the scanner's development comes after last week's convictions of three British men for conspiracy to murder in a case in which defendants were accused of trying to smuggle bomb-making materials onto aircraft inside cabin luggage. The alleged plot, in August 2006, led to a global security clampdown at airports that has resulted in severe restrictions - still in place - on carrying liquids in hand luggage.
