West Midlands Counter Terrorism Policing launch campaign to keep people safe at events this summer

They're relying on people to stay vigilant and report suspicious activity.

Author: Katie JonesPublished 21st Jun 2024
Last updated 21st Jun 2024

Counter Terrorism Policing West Midlands are encouraging the public to look out for each other, trust their instincts and report anything that doesn’t feel right this summer.

Over the coming months, thousands of people across the West Midlands will be out enjoying themselves at events such as music festivals, sports matches and other summer holiday activities.

These events and venues could be attractive targets for terrorist activity, so police are working with event organisers and businesses across the region to encourage vigilance and reporting of suspicious activity.

While this campaign is not based on an increased threat to our region, police are issuing a reminder of the vital role people play in keeping yourself and your friends and family safe when out and about this summer.

You know your surroundings better than anyone else, and you know if something isn’t right. This doesn’t just apply to where you work but on your commute and where you live too.

When you’re heading out this summer, stay alert and follow their advice:

�If you see something that doesn’t feel right, report it to security where you are or online at gov.uk/ACT

� Look out for each other and trust your instincts – don’t wait for someone else to report.

� Anyone can complete the Action Counters Terrorism (ACT) Awareness e-Learning on ProtectUK; this will help you be prepared in the event of a terrorist attack.

� Security guidance and ACT e-Learning can also be found on the ProtectUK platform and app: https://ow.ly/ifGU50RSJlb

� In an emergency, always call 999.

Detective Chief Superintendent Alison Hurst, Head of Counter Terrorism Policing West Midlands, said: “As we head into the summer months, we see the region become packed full of people going to concerts, music festivals, food festivals and enjoying summer activities.

“While this campaign isn’t based on intelligence of an increased threat to the West Midlands, it’s important for everyone to stay vigilant and report suspicious activity.

“We’re working with our key partners across the force as well as event organisers, venues and businesses to help keep events safe, but you can help by staying vigilant and sharing our advice with your friends and family who will be venturing out to enjoy the summer.

“Stay alert and trust your instincts; if something doesn’t feel right – report it straight away.”

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