Police urge public to help fight terrorism

From the Salisbury Journal, first published Wednesday 12th Dec 2007.

POLICE in Hampshire are launching a new poster this week to urge the public to help them in the fight against terrorism.

Whilst there is no specific threat to the two counties, officers are constantly maintaining vigilance and are increasing patrols at shopping centres, ports and airports during the Christmas period.

The threat level across the UK remains at severe, and Hampshire Police is responding to that threat, with the aim of making the two counties a hostile environment for any would-be terrorist.

"Our message is be alert and not alarmed," said Inspector Jim Atherton, who co-ordinates the counter terrorism strategy within Specialist Operations, and for the rest of the Force.

"The posters we have had produced are highlighting to the public the activity which we know takes places in the planning stages of a terrorist attack.

"They may be very simple actions such as observing security procedures and routines, note taking or even an individual making repeated visits to a location.

"In isolation, these activities could be viewed as harmless, but there may be a more sinister motive. We are asking members of the public to remain vigilant, be our eyes and ears, and report any suspicious activity to us.

"Most members of the public will be aware of what signs to look out for for a burglar or car thief, and would be confident in reporting that to us. This poster aims to educate members of the community about suspicious reconnaissance activity, so that we have the intelligence we need to combat the threat.

"This is a fantastic time of year when people are out enjoying themselves, and our aim is simply to keep the communities of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight peaceful and free from harm."

Staff from across the force area are taking part in routine patrols and targeted operations at key locations, supported by officers from Specialist Operations teams including Dog Support Unit, Force Support Unit and Roads Policing Unit.

Archive Home