In 2010, Al Qaeda called for its western based supporters to use trucks and cars as weapons calling them the “the ultimate mowing machine”
Another Al Qaeda leader called on that group’s supporters to [Aim] “for the most crowded location” and “pick up as much speed as you can” in order “strike as many people as possible.”
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Stop The Next Attack
Mifram Barriers — proven anti-ram vehicle barriers trusted by the U.S. Armed Forces, FBI, UN, Israeli MOD, and 50,000+ deployments across 5 continents. Lightweight, modular, no foundation required, no maintenance.
Contact us at +972-72-3340719 (Israel) or 917-522-8387 (US), or fill in the form to speak with a barrier specialist about your perimeter requirements.
Whilst the number of vehicle ramming attacks is still relatively small, figures clearly show that they are on the rise and have become a global rather than a local problem. Statistically, the most effective and lethal car-ramming incidents occur where vehicles plough into pedestrians at public events such as open-air markets, demonstrations, access areas to sporting events, and pedestrian malls.
14 July 2016 – A truck rams into crowds of people celebrating Bastille Day, injuring 458.
December 19, 2016 – A terrorist drives a tractor trailer into a Christmas market.
March 22, 2017 – A terrorist drives into a crowd on London’s Westminster Bridge.
August 17, 2017 – A van mows through a crowd of people in a popular Barcelona tourist area, injuring another 100.
October 31, 2017 – A rented pickup truck drives down a busy bicycle path near the World Trade Center, injuring 12.
Although vehicle ramming attacks remain relatively uncommon, their frequency has increased in recent years, making them a growing global security concern. Unlike many other forms of terrorism, these attacks often require minimal planning, use readily available vehicles, and can be carried out against crowded public spaces with little warning.
Accessible and Readily Available Weapons
Cars, vans, and trucks are widely available and far easier to obtain than firearms or explosive devices, making them attractive tools for individuals seeking to carry out an attack.
Minimal Planning and Preparation Required
Vehicle ramming attacks typically require little preparation, specialized training, or technical expertise, allowing perpetrators to act quickly and unpredictably.
Increased Risk of Copycat Attacks
The simplicity of these attacks can inspire copycat incidents by individuals with no direct connection to terrorist organizations, including lone actors motivated by extremist content or personal grievances.
Public events present unique security challenges, requiring organizers to balance accessibility and visitor experience with effective risk management. A well-planned security strategy should involve coordination between multiple stakeholders and include procedures designed to strengthen preparedness, improve situational awareness, and support a rapid response to potential threats.
Rental Agency Vigilance
Rental agencies can inform the authorities when a customer is highly nervous when renting a vehicle, if they want to pay in cash rather than by credit card, if the documentation they produce arouses suspicion or even if, after completing the rental procedure, they appear to be inexperienced in the operation of the vehicle.
Event Organizer Coordination
Event organizers should contact local police forces to see if there have been recent thefts of pick-up trucks, vans or trucks and, where possible, get identifying details of the stolen vehicles.
Security Officer Observation
In the days running up to an event and during it, security officers should be alert for people loitering outside of the venue for extended periods of time using binoculars and cameras and possible lengthy use of cell phones.
Traffic Pattern Control
Examine traffic patterns at and near the venue site. Define and implement strategies for better control of traffic, cooperating with local police when necessary.
Risk Assessment
Conduct a risk assessment process for the event site and surrounding area. Identify potential risk areas and develop security strategies that address identified risks.
Access Pass System
Define and implement a pass system for all employees and vehicles entering the site. Log all entrants, vehicle details, entry times, and expected exit times.
Suspicious Activity Monitoring
Instruct security officers to be on the lookout for suspicious activities, such as a sudden, large crowd or a speeding vehicle approaching their station.
CCTV Surveillance
Install CCTV to monitor activity within the venue, at entry and exit points, and around the perimeter where possible.
Emergency Signage
Post clear signs indicating all emergency exit points, first aid stations, security posts, and safe rooms.
Vehicle-Free Zones
Establish specific “vehicle free zones” designed strictly for pedestrians only.
Controlled Vehicle Access
Have specific entry and exit points for those who need vehicle access to the site. Consider the use of passive and/or active vehicle barriers.
Mass Gathering Protection
Use anchored barriers, bollards, barricades, or heavy vehicles to create stand-off zones and prevent unauthorized vehicle access during mass events.
Mifram Barriers — proven anti-ram vehicle barriers trusted by the U.S. Armed Forces, FBI, UN, Israeli MOD, and 50,000+ deployments across 5 continents. Lightweight, modular, no foundation required, no maintenance.
Contact us at +972-72-3340719 (Israel) or 917-522-8387 (US), or fill in the form to speak with a barrier specialist about your perimeter requirements.
Additional resources to dive deeper into the topic
Safety and security of those attending the event
Learn how event organizers and public safety agencies address the complex security demands of festivals and cultural gatherings through proactive planning, monitoring, and threat preparedness.
Read MoreMCCB: Modular Crowd Control Barrier
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Read MoreBVB: Buried Vehicle Barrier
Learn how heavy-duty vehicle barriers prevent unauthorized vehicle access and provide reliable protection against both light and heavy vehicle threats in high-security environments.
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Read MoreArticle Sources & Fact Check
| Claim / Finding | Source |
|---|---|
| 14 July 2016 – A truck rams into crowds of people celebrating Bastille Day, injuring 458 [and killing 86]. | Time Magazine external |
| In 2010, Al Qaeda called for its western based supporters to use trucks and cars as weapons calling them the “the ultimate mowing machine” | The Conversation external |
| A buried, heavy duty, destructive vehicle barrier for stopping both light and heavy vehicles, attempting unauthorized access. | BVB: Buried Vehicle Barrier external |
| Statistically, the most effective and lethal car-ramming incidents occur where vehicles plough into pedestrians at public events such as open-air markets, demonstrations, access areas to sporting events, and pedestrian malls. | LinkedIn external |
| Al Qaeda leader called | vosizneias.com external |
| Abu Mohammed al-Adani, an ISIS spokesman told | edition.cnn.com external |
| A unique solution that makes it possible to maintain open roads and deploy a spike barrier, when needed, in seconds. | Spikes: Extendable spiked barrier external |