# Yemen and the Nigerian Crotch Bomber > A failed airline bombing in Detroit provides the perfect media smokescreen for the U.S. government to lift national debt limits and expand global surveillance. - **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md) - **Episode:** 160 - **Published:** 2009-12-27 - **Length:** 1h 24m - **Topics:** [Crotch Bomber](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/crotch-bomber.md), TSA Scanners, [Fannie Mae](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fannie-mae.md), [Yemen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/yemen.md), Goldstone Report, [PETN](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/petn.md), [Boko Haram](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/boko-haram.md) - **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/160-yemen-and-the-nigerian-crotch-bomber ## About this episode Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab, the Nigerian suspect known as the crotch bomber, allegedly attempted to detonate PETN explosives aboard Northwest Airlines Flight 253 on Christmas Day. The investigation by the TSA and international intelligence agencies quickly linked the suspect to radical elements in Yemen, sparking immediate calls for the deployment of full-body scanners across global airports. Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak analyze the speed of this narrative and its connection to broader geopolitical interests in the Middle East and Africa. Nigerian news sources report that American security forces raided six cities, including Kano and Kaduna, immediately following the Detroit incident, while the U.S. government quietly removed debt ceiling limits and bailout caps for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. The TSA implemented restrictive new policies for Delta Air Lines and United Airlines, including disabling in-flight entertainment and prohibiting passenger movement during the final hour of flight. Meanwhile, testimony from the Iraq Inquiry in the UK reveals that critical 2002 briefing telegrams regarding the invasion have vanished from official archives. Additional reports cover the UN Goldstone Report on Gaza, which led to an arrest warrant for Israeli Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni and the recall of ambassadors by Benjamin Netanyahu. Broadcasting from a mobile studio in a snow-covered Yosemite National Park, Adam Curry coordinates with John C. Dvorak in Silicon Valley despite failing Wi-Fi at the Wawona Hotel. Executive Producers Daniel Rudolph and Stephen Pelsmacher lead the value-for-value support for this episode. The hosts also examine a Clorox H1N1 advertisement and the development of the weight-loss drug Lorcaserin by Arena Pharmaceuticals. ## Chapters Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/160-yemen-and-the-nigerian-crotch-bomber/transcript.md. ### 1. No Agenda Episode 160, Gitmo Nation Media Assassination (0:00–1:29) Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak open episode 160 of the No Agenda show on December 27, 2009. Curry broadcasts from a mobile setup in Yosemite National Park, while Dvorak joins from Northern Silicon Valley. The hosts introduce the "Gitmo Nation" theme and prepare to discuss the week's media events. Keywords: [adam curry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/adam-curry.md), [john c. dvorak](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-c-dvorak.md), [no agenda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/no-agenda.md), [gitmo nation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gitmo-nation.md), episode 160 [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/160-yemen-and-the-nigerian-crotch-bomber/chapter/1.md) ### 2. Yosemite National Park, Wawona Hotel Mobile Studio Setup (1:29–6:34) A mobile studio is established inside a vehicle at Yosemite National Park after the Wawona Hotel lacked promised internet access. The setup utilizes a wireless microphone, a laptop powered by battery, and a Wi-Fi connection found at the Redwood Cottages parking lot. The broadcast continues despite heavy snow and limited power resources. Keywords: [yosemite](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/yosemite.md), wawona hotel, redwood cottages, [mobile studio](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mobile-studio.md), apple laptop [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/160-yemen-and-the-nigerian-crotch-bomber/chapter/2.md) ### 3. Executive Producers, Daniel Rudolph and Stephen Pelsmacher (6:35–8:23) Daniel Rudolph from Dresden, Germany, and Stephen Pelsmacher from Belgium are credited as executive producers for this episode. Rudolph donated $242, while Pelsmacher contributed a specific sequence of $234.56. The hosts emphasize that these credits are official and can be used on professional resumes. Keywords: daniel rudolph, [stephen pelsmacher](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/stephen-pelsmacher.md), [dresden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dresden.md), [belgium](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/belgium.md), [executive producer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/executive-producer.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/160-yemen-and-the-nigerian-crotch-bomber/chapter/3.md) ### 4. Tulip Festival Photography, John C. Dvorak Christmas Gift (8:24–12:35) John C. Dvorak gifted Adam Curry two large-scale floral photographs taken at a tulip festival in Holland. The prints were produced using a high-end Epson roll printer at the home of Photoshop expert Burt Monroy. The discussion touches on the high cost of professional framing and the legacy of photographer Ansel Adams in the Yosemite region. Keywords: tulip festival, [holland](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/holland.md), [photography](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/photography.md), burt monroy, ansel adams [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/160-yemen-and-the-nigerian-crotch-bomber/chapter/4.md) ### 5. Social Media Engagement, Mickey Hoogendijk Twitter Update (12:37–14:29) The hosts coordinate a social media update to alert listeners that the show is live. Mickey Hoogendijk is mentioned in relation to a photo of the mobile studio setup being shared on Twitter. The segment captures the atmosphere of broadcasting from a car during a snowstorm. Keywords: [mickey hoogendijk](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mickey-hoogendijk.md), [twitter](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/twitter.md), [retweet](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/retweet.md), [followers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/followers.md), [live stream](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/live-stream.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/160-yemen-and-the-nigerian-crotch-bomber/chapter/5.md) ### 6. Northwest Airlines Flight 253, Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab Investigation (14:31–20:02) Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab, referred to as the "crotch bomber," allegedly attempted to detonate an explosive device on a flight from Amsterdam to Detroit. The investigation quickly linked the Nigerian suspect to radical elements in Yemen and the Fort Hood shooter. Skepticism is expressed regarding the speed at which intelligence agencies released detailed background information to the press. Keywords: [crotch bomber](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/crotch-bomber.md), [detroit](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/detroit.md), [amsterdam](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amsterdam.md), umar farouk abdulmutallab, [yemen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/yemen.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/160-yemen-and-the-nigerian-crotch-bomber/chapter/6.md) ### 7. PETN Explosive Characteristics, Schiphol Airport Security Breach (20:03–22:43) The explosive material used in the attempted airline attack is identified as PETN (pentaerythritol tetranitrate). Questions are raised about how the suspect bypassed security at Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam with an incendiary device. Technical details suggest that a significant amount of the chemical would be required to cause catastrophic damage to an aircraft. Keywords: [petn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/petn.md), [schiphol airport](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/schiphol-airport.md), incendiary device, pentaerythritol tetranitrate, [explosives](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/explosives.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/160-yemen-and-the-nigerian-crotch-bomber/chapter/7.md) ### 8. Full Body Scanners, TSA Security Procedure Changes (22:43–26:55) The TSA is moving toward implementing full-body scanners at airports following the attempted bombing of Flight 253. Critics argue these measures are designed to sell expensive equipment rather than improve safety, noting that existing swab tests already detect PETN. New restrictions include preventing passengers from leaving their seats during the final hour of flight. Keywords: [tsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tsa.md), [body scanners](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/body-scanners.md), [ge](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ge.md), [petn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/petn.md), [security checkpoints](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/security-checkpoints.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/160-yemen-and-the-nigerian-crotch-bomber/chapter/8.md) ### 9. Airline Policy Restrictions, United and Delta Security Measures (26:55–30:16) United Airlines and Delta Air Lines implemented immediate restrictive policies in response to the Detroit bombing attempt. United disabled in-flight entertainment systems to hide flight path maps, while Delta prohibited the use of blankets and laptops on certain routes. These measures are criticized as being overly burdensome to passengers without addressing core security flaws. Keywords: [united airlines](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/united-airlines.md), [delta air lines](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/delta-air-lines.md), [in-flight entertainment](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/in-flight-entertainment.md), blankets, [laptops](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/laptops.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/160-yemen-and-the-nigerian-crotch-bomber/chapter/9.md) ### 10. Al-Qaeda Database Theory, Yemen Military Consultants (30:16–32:08) The term Al-Qaeda is described as a CIA database of radicals rather than a cohesive terrorist organization. The sudden focus on Yemen is linked to potential interests in new oil fields and recent military consultant deployments. The narrative connects the Detroit incident to broader geopolitical goals in the Middle East and Africa. Keywords: [al-qaeda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/al-qaeda.md), [cia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cia.md), [yemen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/yemen.md), [oil fields](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/oil-fields.md), [fort hood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fort-hood.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/160-yemen-and-the-nigerian-crotch-bomber/chapter/10.md) ### 11. Biometric Profiling Risks, RFID Tracking Technology (32:09–35:05) Full-body scanners are characterized as tools for creating biometric profiles of citizens rather than simple security checks. These profiles could potentially be linked to individuals via RFID readers scanning passports or credit cards in the vicinity. There is a noted lack of coverage from Silicon Valley tech reporters regarding the long-term surveillance implications of this technology. Keywords: [biometrics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/biometrics.md), [rfid](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rfid.md), [privacy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/privacy.md), [silicon valley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/silicon-valley.md), [surveillance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/surveillance.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/160-yemen-and-the-nigerian-crotch-bomber/chapter/11.md) ### 12. Sponsor segment: Kena Kai Data Safe Wallets, RFID Protection (35:06–35:50) Kena Kai offers Faraday cage wallets and passport covers designed to block RFID signals and prevent unauthorized data scanning. These "data safe" wallets are recommended as a defense against the increasing use of biometric and electronic tracking at security checkpoints. Keywords: kena kai, [faraday cage](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/faraday-cage.md), rfid blocking, wallets, [passports](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/passports.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/160-yemen-and-the-nigerian-crotch-bomber/chapter/12.md) ### 13. TSA Weekly Reports, Lead Foil Security Prank (35:50–38:56) The TSA's weekly activity report is reviewed, noting the seizure of 17 firearms and various "artfully concealed" items. A hypothetical practical joke is described involving the use of lead foil cut into the shape of a revolver and hidden in a book. The hosts warn that such actions would likely lead to legal trouble and loss of freedom. Keywords: [tsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tsa.md), jack hoffman, [firearms](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/firearms.md), lead foil, practical jokes [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/160-yemen-and-the-nigerian-crotch-bomber/chapter/13.md) ### 14. Nigerian News Perspective, Taliban Soldier Video (38:56–40:29) Nigerian news sources report that American security forces stormed six northern Nigerian cities, including Kano and Kaduna, immediately following the Detroit flight incident. This military activity coincided with the Taliban's release of a video featuring a captured U.S. soldier in Afghanistan. These events suggest a coordinated international response that was largely ignored by Western media. Keywords: [nigeria](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nigeria.md), [taliban](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/taliban.md), [afghanistan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/afghanistan.md), [al-qaeda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/al-qaeda.md), sun news online [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/160-yemen-and-the-nigerian-crotch-bomber/chapter/14.md) ### 15. National Debt Limits, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac Bailouts (40:30–42:51) The U.S. government quietly removed spending limits for the national debt and eliminated bailout caps for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. This legislative move, occurring under the cover of the "crotch bomber" news cycle, potentially puts taxpayers on the hook for hundreds of billions in mortgage liabilities. Executive compensation for the CEOs of these entities was also renegotiated to include multi-million dollar packages. Keywords: [national debt](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/national-debt.md), [fannie mae](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fannie-mae.md), [freddie mac](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/freddie-mac.md), [wall street journal](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wall-street-journal.md), [bailouts](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bailouts.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/160-yemen-and-the-nigerian-crotch-bomber/chapter/15.md) ### 16. Nigeria Military Infiltration, Crotch Bomber Media Distraction (42:51–46:05) The CIA has reportedly been operating in Nigeria since July 2009, following confrontations with the Boko Haram sect. The rapid coordination of city raids in Nigeria and the focus on Yemen are viewed as pre-planned operations accelerated by the Detroit bombing attempt. The "crotch bomber" narrative is identified as a primary media distraction from significant changes in federal spending and mortgage market oversight. Keywords: [nigeria](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nigeria.md), [cia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cia.md), [boko haram](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/boko-haram.md), [yemen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/yemen.md), mortgage market [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/160-yemen-and-the-nigerian-crotch-bomber/chapter/16.md) ### 17. Airport Scanner Inefficiency, Schiphol Gate Security (46:05–48:17) Personal experiences with airport scanners suggest they are inefficient, often requiring manual pat-downs even after a successful scan. Security at Schiphol Airport is described as having unsophisticated checkpoints at individual gates that rely on basic metal detectors. The failure to stop the Detroit suspect is attributed to systemic apathy and the rehiring of the same personnel under new agency names. Keywords: [airport security](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/airport-security.md), [schiphol](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/schiphol.md), [metal detectors](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/metal-detectors.md), [x-ray](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/x-ray.md), [pat-downs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pat-downs.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/160-yemen-and-the-nigerian-crotch-bomber/chapter/17.md) ### 18. No Agenda Value-for-Value Funding Model (48:17–50:53) The No Agenda show operates exclusively on listener donations, eschewing traditional advertising. Listeners are encouraged to support the program through PayPal subscriptions, with $5 monthly donations highlighted as a vital base for operations. The hosts contrast their independent reporting on Nigeria and federal spending with the narrow focus of mainstream Sunday news programs. Keywords: [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md), [paypal](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/paypal.md), [value-for-value](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/value-for-value.md), [producers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/producers.md), [starbucks](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/starbucks.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/160-yemen-and-the-nigerian-crotch-bomber/chapter/18.md) ### 19. Donation Segment, International Producer Credits (50:53–56:53) A list of $50 donors and international producers is read, including contributors from Germany, Australia, and Canada. Notable mentions include Oliver Kiesler from Cologne and Christopher Griep from Edmonton, whose last name translates to "flu" in Dutch. The segment is briefly interrupted by Wi-Fi signal interference caused by a vehicle parking near the mobile studio. Keywords: [cologne](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cologne.md), [germany](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/germany.md), [new south wales](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/new-south-wales.md), [ontario](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ontario.md), [alberta](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/alberta.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/160-yemen-and-the-nigerian-crotch-bomber/chapter/19.md) ### 20. Iraq Inquiry Testimony, Missing British Archive Telegrams (56:53–1:00:20) Testimony from a former British ambassador to the U.S. during the Iraq Inquiry reveals that key briefing telegrams from 2002 have disappeared from official archives. The missing documents reportedly detailed agreements between the U.S. and UK regarding UN processes prior to the invasion. The discussion touches on the vulnerability of digital records and the suspicious death of a technician who maintained Bush administration emails. Keywords: [iraq inquiry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iraq-inquiry.md), [c-span](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/c-span.md), [tony blair](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tony-blair.md), [george w. bush](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/george-w-bush.md), [archives](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/archives.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/160-yemen-and-the-nigerian-crotch-bomber/chapter/20.md) ### 21. Clorox H1N1 Advertisement, FDA Regulation of Health Claims (1:00:20–1:03:30) A Clorox television advertisement is analyzed for its heavy promotion of the H1N1 flu vaccine and disinfection protocols. While major corporations like Clorox and Lysol use the pandemic for branding, the FDA reportedly suppresses smaller entities making health claims about Vitamin D or organic antivirals. The hosts note the rise of contextual advertising that targets "swine flu" keywords in digital media. Keywords: [clorox](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/clorox.md), [h1n1](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/h1n1.md), [fda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fda.md), [lysol](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lysol.md), [vitamin d](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vitamin-d.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/160-yemen-and-the-nigerian-crotch-bomber/chapter/21.md) ### 22. Political Civility Roundtable, Bloggers and Wise Guys (1:03:31–1:08:37) A government roundtable discussion regarding the decline of civility in politics blames the influence of bloggers and "wise guys." The hosts reject this narrative, pointing out that historical political discourse in the 1800s was significantly more violent and confrontational. The segment criticizes the self-importance of political officials and the establishment of "free speech zones." Keywords: [civility](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/civility.md), [bloggers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bloggers.md), [jesse helms](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jesse-helms.md), claiborne pell, [free speech zones](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/free-speech-zones.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/160-yemen-and-the-nigerian-crotch-bomber/chapter/22.md) ### 23. Goldstone Report, Israeli Diplomatic Recall (1:08:40–1:11:48) The UN Goldstone Report, which investigated human rights violations during the 22-day conflict in Gaza, has led to significant diplomatic tension. An arrest warrant issued in the UK for Israeli Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni prompted her to cancel a visit to London. Consequently, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recalled all Israeli ambassadors and consuls general to Jerusalem for emergency discussions. Keywords: goldstone report, [united nations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/united-nations.md), [israel](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/israel.md), [gaza](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gaza.md), tzipi livni [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/160-yemen-and-the-nigerian-crotch-bomber/chapter/23.md) ### 24. Gaza Blockade, Hamas Rocket Conflict Debate (1:11:49–1:17:19) The ongoing blockade of Gaza has resulted in severe shortages of water and food, leading to the use of supply tunnels. The debate centers on the proportionality of the Israeli military response to Hamas rocket fire, with references to the use of white phosphorus in civilian areas. The hosts disagree on the impact and origin of the rockets fired into Israel, highlighting the complexity of the regional conflict. Keywords: [gaza](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gaza.md), [hamas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hamas.md), phosphorus bombs, [blockade](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/blockade.md), [idf](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/idf.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/160-yemen-and-the-nigerian-crotch-bomber/chapter/24.md) ### 25. Lorcaserin Weight Loss Drug, Arena Pharmaceuticals (1:17:19–1:20:31) Arena Pharmaceuticals is developing Lorcaserin, a new oral drug for weight management currently in Phase 3 clinical trials known as BLOOM and BLOSSOM. The drug targets obesity through behavioral modification and chemical intervention. Skepticism is expressed regarding the long-term safety of such weight-loss pills, noting a history of similar drugs being found deadly after release. Keywords: lorcaserin, arena pharmaceuticals, [obesity](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/obesity.md), weight management, bloom trial [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/160-yemen-and-the-nigerian-crotch-bomber/chapter/25.md) ### 26. Obama Administration Accomplishments, Year-End Show Preview (1:20:31–1:24:01) A list from Esquire magazine detailing President Obama's first-year accomplishments is reviewed, covering the bank bailout, the order to close Guantanamo Bay, and new car emission standards. The show concludes with a listener story about an Obama-themed gift and a preview of the upcoming New Year's Eve episode. Adam Curry signs off from his mobile studio in Yosemite. Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [esquire magazine](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/esquire-magazine.md), [guantanamo bay](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/guantanamo-bay.md), [bank bailout](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bank-bailout.md), [yosemite](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/yosemite.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/160-yemen-and-the-nigerian-crotch-bomber/chapter/26.md) - [Previous episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/159-health-care-doublecross.md) - [Next episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/161-obama-vs-cia.md) --- This is the markdown version of a page on The No Agenda Show for AI agents. 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