In his most forceful public statement yet, Police Chief Roberto Martinez stood before a packed press room Thursday morning and made a promise to the people of Metro City: TerrorByte will be caught, and he will face justice.
"Let me be absolutely clear," Martinez said, his voice steady but intense. "This individual has murdered innocent people. He has terrorized our families. He has attacked the very infrastructure that keeps our city functioning. We will not rest until he is in custody."
Enhanced Task Force
Martinez announced the immediate expansion of the Cyber Terrorism Task Force, tripling its size from 15 to 45 officers. The unit will include specialists from the FBI, NSA, and private sector cybersecurity firms.
"We're bringing together the best minds in the country," Martinez said. "TerrorByte thinks he's smarter than everyone. He's about to find out he's wrong."
The expanded task force will operate from a new $12 million command center, partially funded by a grant from Nexus Corporation. The facility will feature real-time monitoring of all city systems and AI-powered threat detection.
"To those who celebrate this terrorist online: we're watching. We're tracking. And when we take down TerrorByte, we're coming for his supporters next."
— Police Chief Roberto Martinez
New Surveillance Measures
As part of the enhanced response, the city will accelerate deployment of Nexus Corp's Guardian Network — the AI-powered surveillance system that some have criticized as overreach.
"The time for half-measures is over," Martinez said when asked about privacy concerns. "Would you rather have cameras on street corners, or would you rather have your children living in fear of a terrorist who can strike anywhere, anytime?"
City Council approved emergency funding for 2,400 additional smart cameras earlier this week. Installation will begin immediately in high-risk areas.
Community Response
The announcement was met with overwhelming support from community leaders and victims' families.
"It's about time," said Elena Rodriguez, widow of murdered businessman Marcus Rodriguez. "My husband deserved better. My children deserve to know that his killer will face justice."
The Metro City Business Alliance pledged $2 million in additional reward money, bringing the total bounty for information leading to TerrorByte's capture to $2.5 million.
A Message to TerrorByte
Martinez concluded his remarks with a direct message to the terrorist.
"I know you're watching this. I know you think you're untouchable. You're wrong. Every day, we're getting closer. Every attack you make leaves traces. Every system you hack gives us data. Your days are numbered."
He paused, looking directly into the cameras. "Turn yourself in. It's the only way this ends without more people getting hurt — including you."
The Cyber Terrorism Hotline remains open 24/7 at 555-CYBER. Tips can be submitted anonymously.
