DHS completes detection system integration

WASHINGTON, Nov. 9 (UPI) -- The U.S. Homeland Security Department says an initiative to install nuclear threat detection technologies along the northern border has been completed early.

Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano announced the Domestic Nuclear Detection Office and U.S. Customs and Border Protection have successfully installed radiation portal monitors at all border crossings on the northern border two months ahead of schedule.

Officials say the radiation scanning technology is designed to detect illicit materials that are used to construct dirty bombs and other explosive threats.

"Securing our northern border while facilitating legitimate travel and trade requires a strategic combination of technology, personnel and infrastructure," Napolitano said in a statement.

"This technology enhances our capability to guard against terrorism and criminal threats while expediting border crossings for lawful trade and travel."