Public urged to be extra vigilant of terrorist activity in the run up to Christmas

The UK terror threat level is at severe after recent terror attacks in Liverpool and Essex

Author: Hannah NorburyPublished 20th Dec 2021

Members of the public are being urged to remain extra vigilant over the festive period, after the UK's terror threat alert level was raised to severe, following two attacks in Liverpool and Essex recently.

People living in West Yorkshire are being encouraged to trust their instincts and report anything suspicious to Counter Terrorism Policing.

In the last 12 months, they received around 10,000 reports from members of the public.

A fifth were turned into intelligence used to disrupt terrorist activity in the UK.

Investigators are currently working on 800 live investigations and have disrupted 31 plots since 2017.

Examples of suspicious behaviour:

  • Taking notes or photos about security arrangements in city centres, or at events
  • Hiring large vehicles for no clear reason
  • Buying or storing large amounts of chemicals, fertilisers or gas cylinders for no obvious reasons
  • Suspicious or unusual bank transactions
  • Detective Chief Superintendent Snowden said:
  • “You are not wasting our time by reporting your concerns, no call or click will be ignored. What you tell us will be treated in the strictest confidence and any piece of information could be important.
  • “What I ask is that whilst you’re out and about, enjoying your work Christmas party, shopping, or visiting friends and family, that you remain vigilant.
  • “You might spot something that seems a bit strange, or notice someone you know behaving differently. If this is the case, then please contact us, you could save lives.
  • “Your information could be a vital piece in a much bigger puzzle, and you could help police prevent terrorist activity.”
  • You can find more information and make a report at gov.uk/ACT. In an emergency, always dial 999.
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