Homeland Security Bulletin Warns Of Continued Threat Of Domestic Extremists
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Law enforcement across the country are on high alert following a National Terrorism Advisory System (NTAS) bulletin issued by Acting Secretary of Homeland Security David Pekoske. The department announced it has information to suggest that extremists who object to the results of the presidential election are continuing to mobilize and could incite violence as seen during the break-in at the Capitol on Jan. 6.
In an interview Wednesday on "CBS This Morning," former Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff said the Capitol riots exposed the real and growing threat of domestic terrorism.
"I think we need to treat it as seriously as we have been treating global jihadism in terms of a threat to homeland security," he said.
The Department of Homeland Security is urging people to avoid large crowds and protests and to be hyper aware of their surroundings.
Eyewitness News spoke to tourists visiting the Liberty Bell Wednesday who said they are acutely aware that these are tense times.
"I didn't want to come here last week because of the inauguration and I didn't know if there might be some very active protests going on, violent protests, here in Philadelphia, so I'm glad it's a week later," said Vickie Harcum, who was visiting from New York City.
"I'm just hoping now that maybe, things will maybe settle, but ultimately people have the right to petition whatever their beliefs are," added Chelsea Paredes, also of New York City. "I just hope that, as a nation, we can find more unity through difference of opinion."
The Department of Homeland Security is asking people to report any suspicious activity or threats of violence, including online, to local law-enforcement or the FBI.
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