Jun. 15, 2004 Sandra Yi Reporting Bob Wright: "It's nothing more than domestic terrorism and that's how we're approaching it." A faxed note sent to KSL could reveal who set a fire at a West Jordan lumber yard and what targets may be next. KSL News Radio received the fax this afternoon. It claims to be from the eco-terrorist group the Earth Liberation Front, or ELF.
Bob Wright: "The fact that this group and other eco-terrorists have been involved with the destruction of property and potentially could injure individuals, they should be considered very, very dangerous." A day after this West Jordan lumberyard went up in flames KSL News Radio received a fax claiming to be from the Earth Liberation Front. It says ELF targeted the Stock Building Supply, because it ignored warnings to repair its forklifts, which the organization says, put out more pollutants than average diesel engines. The arsonists appear to have no remorse. The release goes on to say, “If the consequences are what it takes to bring the company's negligence to the media and the people of the world, then it is well worth it and ELF will continue its mission, to stop large companies from destroying the environment.” What's even more disturbing is four other targets in Utah are named. Bob Wright: "It's a little bit surprising that targets would be announced. However, we take it very seriously." ELF is known to take credit for its actions and boasts them on its website, which includes a diary of targets. As of today it describes two terrorist acts allegedly committed by ELF this year -- the most recent in February at a building site in Charlottesville, Virginia. So far, Monday's lumber yard fire has not been listed, but the letters E-L-F were spray painted at the scene. Bob Wright: "Graffiti in and of itself doesn't mean an organization is or isn't involved. Obviously, we're taking it very seriously to try and ascertain if certain organizations or individuals are involved." Authorities have contacted the businesses listed in the fax and local police and fire departments. Anyone with information is asked to call the 'Joint Terrorist Task Force' at 579-1400. |
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