CIAO DATE: 02/2010
January 2010
The Washington Institute for Near East Policy
In recent years, terrorists have increasingly mimicked the activities of conventional criminal organizations. Many terrorist groups -- not only in the Middle East, but also in regions such as West Africa, Latin America, and Central and South Asia -- capitalize on narcotics trafficking and other illicit activities to finance their operations. As the United States and its allies place increased pressure on state sponsors, terrorists have turned to criminal enterprises conducted through porous borders as the most lucrative means of building finances and support. Meanwhile, disintegrating law enforcement and judicial systems have created insecurity and endangered the societies and economies of states that are vital to international stability.
Resource link: Dangerous Alliance: Escalating Ties between Terrorist Groups and Criminal Activity [PDF] - 68K