As Los Angeles prepares to host the 2028 Summer Olympics, the security of its public and surface transportation systems is paramount. The recent arson attacks on France’s rail network, occurring just hours before the Paris Olympic opening ceremony, serve as a stark reminder of the potential threats that public transit systems face. In these incidents, multiple perpetrators set fires on trains, causing significant damage and service disruptions, though fortunately, there were no fatalities. These events highlight the vulnerability of public transportation to coordinated attacks aimed at creating chaos and fear.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has dubbed the upcoming Olympics a “car-free” event, with over 30 venues across several counties relying heavily on public transit to move millions of visitors. However, the potential for similar attacks on LA Metro’s trains and buses poses a serious threat. Such incidents could instill fear among passengers, drastically reduce ridership, and even bring the games to a halt. The psychological impact of such an attack would also be profound, undermining public confidence in the safety of the transit system.
Historically, public transportation has been a target for terrorist attacks due to its accessibility and the potential for wreaking havoc. Examples include the 2004 Madrid train bombings, the 2005 London Underground bombings, and the 2016 Brussels Metro attack. Brian Jenkins, a renowned expert on terrorism and public transportation security, has commented on these threats: “Public transportation systems are attractive targets for terrorists because of their open access, high passenger volume, and symbolic value. Ensuring the security of these systems during the Olympics will require a comprehensive and adaptive approach, integrating technology, intelligence, and public awareness.”
The upcoming 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles presents unique security challenges, especially with the city’s plan to rely on public transit to create a car-free environment. This reliance heightens the need for a robust security plan, addressing potential threats such as:
- Cyber and Kinetic Attacks: Cyberattacks on signaling systems, communications, and operations, combined with physical attacks like bombings, shootings, or arson, could cause widespread disruption and panic.
- Insider Threats: Employees with access to sensitive information could be coerced or recruited to assist in attacks.
- State Actors and Lone Wolves: Both state-sponsored terrorists and lone-wolf attackers pose significant threats due to their capacity for high-impact actions.
To counter these threats, LA Metro and other similar agencies should immediately implement advanced technologies and strategies to enhance security, such as:
- Facial Recognition and AI: Real-time identification of threats through facial recognition technology and artificial intelligence.
- Enhanced Security Screening: Advanced electronic screening systems at transit hubs to detect weapons and explosives.
- Real-Time Threat Monitoring: Continuous monitoring and threat detection using AI and machine learning.
- “Be On the Lookout” (BOLO) Alerts: Alerts for authorities and security personnel about potential threats.
- Crowd Monitoring and Management: Data analytics and surveillance to monitor crowd movements and detect suspicious behavior.
- Electronic Weapons Detection and Metal Detectors: Systems are deployed to prevent firearms and other weapons from being brought onto public transportation.
- Data-Driven Decision Making: Using analytics to predict potential threats and allow for proactive measures.
A comprehensive security approach is essential, combining technology integration with collaboration among local, state, and federal agencies. Public awareness and training are also critical components, ensuring that the public knows how to recognize and report suspicious activities and that security personnel are prepared for a range of threats.While one may think that LA can easily tap law enforcement to assist with safety and security, this too presents a significant challenge in securing transportation systems. For example, LA Metro’s current safety model involves the LAPD, LASD, and Long Beach Police Department to protect Metro passengers and staff, however, it has proven to be ineffective due to a lack of coordination and accountability. In fact, between March and April 2024, violent crime, including aggravated assault, battery, and homicide, rose by 15.6%. With transit ridership projected to be more than double Metro’s current