FBI plays down terror threat to refineries
From Terry Frieden
CNN
WASHINGTON (CNN) -- Intelligence suggesting a potential threat to Texas oil refineries has prompted the FBI to privately issue a threat advisory to local police agencies and oil industry representatives in the Houston area, FBI sources confirmed Thursday.
The sources stressed the report of potential terrorist activity is "unconfirmed and uncorroborated," and the message from FBI headquarters to the Houston field office was sent "out of an abundance of caution."
The nonspecific threat information mentioned only the possible targeting of the Texas oil industry generally.
FBI sources emphasized the caution was a routine action, of the kind the bureau issues daily, but which seldom become public knowledge.
Rep. Jim Turner, D-Texas, the top Democrat on the House Committee on Homeland Security, confirmed the FBI advisory.
"We know refineries are vulnerable, and we must do all we can to make them as safe as they can be from terrorism," Turner said in a written statement. "We must move faster and stronger to protect critical infrastructure in Texas and across America."
