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Understanding Soft Targets After New York Attack Near Transit Hub

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Police are investigating what appears to be a lone wolf attack on an underground walkway near the Port Authority bus and train terminal in midtown Manhattan.

That suspect is in custody, according to reports. Three people suffered minor injuries. Police say the 27-year-old man, identified as Akayed Ullah, allegedly tried to set off this pipe bomb but also suffered injuries. It's unclear if the bomb was set off intentionally or prematurely.

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo called this an "unsuccessful" attack — and pointed to New York as a common target for would-be terrorists.

"This is New York," he said. "The reality is that we are a target by many who would like to make a statement against democracy, against freedom. We are the Statue of Liberty in our harbor. And that makes us an international target, we understand that."

Guest

Rebeca Ibarra, reporter at WNYC in New York City. She tweets @rebeibarrac.

Max Abrahms, political science professor at Northeastern University. He tweets @maxabrahms.

This segment aired on December 11, 2017.

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