Terror threat update from Northumbria Police and Police and Crime Commissioner
25th May 2017
Wednesday 24, May – Last night the Prime Minister, announced the threat level was raised to CRITICAL – ‘an attack maybe imminent’.
Today, Chief Constable Steve Ashman, said: “In response to this heightened threat the public will see an increased policing and security within the Northumbria Police area at key sites, such as train stations, transport hubs and other crowded places. This increased security is to protect and reassure the public.
“The number of officers on duty, both armed and unarmed has been increased significantly to provide a highly visible, reassuring presence. This will remain in place for as long as is necessary.
“In some parts of the country the military will be deployed to provide visible protective security patrols, however there are NO plans at this stage for the military to be deployed in the Northumbria area.
“There will however, be an increase in the numbers of armed police officers on patrol.
“Neighbourhood officers and community engagement teams will continue to work with local communities across the force to support them and provide reassurance.
“The safety and security of our communities remains our priority and we are working with local partners, central government and other agencies across the country to keep the public safe.
“Officers from event planning teams and protective security experts will be working with event organisers to ensure that venues have appropriate security measures in place for upcoming events to ensure the safety of visitors.
“Our security measures and activities are under constant review to ensure that we are doing all that we can to protect the public.
“At this time the public are asked to remain calm but alert. If you see anything that causes you concern, report it immediately to the police.”
Police and Crime Commissioner, Vera Baird, DBE QC, said: “The Prime Minister, having declared the national threat as being at “critical” level , has led to Northumbria Police acting immediately to protect us all. There is no specific known threat directed to Northumbria in particular at all.
“There will be more armed officers in public places and around in general. They continue to be our usual friendly Northumbria officers. Don’t hesitate to chat to them or ask them questions and definitely give them any information or tell them about any suspicions or concerns you may have. They will be pleased to talk with you and will value all the information you can give, whether it turns out to be important or not.
“It has been made clear, at this stage, there are no plans for soldiers to be on our streets in Northumbria.
“I am in frequent contact with the Chief Constable and through him, with national planning, he and I will make sure that we pass on as much information as possible and we all hope that the threat level will be reduced before long.”
A webpage with advice for victims and those affected by the attack has gone live on gov.uk: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/manchester-attack-may-2017-support-for-people-affected
The latest guidance on recognising the terrorist threat and remaining vigilant can be accessed via www.nactso.gov.uk
We advise the public to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious behaviour or activity on 0800 789 321 or in an emergency the public should always call 999. For further information about reporting suspicious behaviour visit https://act.campaign.gov.uk/. If you get caught up in the rare event of a weapons attack we urge you to follow the Run, Hide, Tell advice.
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