A WEST MIDLANDS counter terrorism chief has appealed for people to remain vigilant in the region – despite the UK threat level being lowered.
Yesterday (Monday, November 4) the UK threat level from terrorism was reduced to Substantial (likely) from Severe (highly likely) by the Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre (JTAC).
Head of West Midlands Counter Terrorism Unit, Chief Superintendent Matt Ward, said today: “The reduction to ‘Substantial’ indicates positive developments in reducing the threat from terrorism but still means an attack is likely.
“Counter Terrorism Policing has around 800 live CT investigations nationally and 24 attack plots have been thwarted since the atrocity in Westminster in March 2017. So it is vital that we all maintain a high level of vigilance.
“Police need the continued support of the public and all our partners.
“The festive period is fast approaching and, coupled with an election, our towns and cities will be extremely busy. So we appeal to everyone to please remain alert and if you see something that doesn’t seem right, act and contact police at gov.uk/ACT.
“In an emergency always call 999.
“West Midlands Police officers will continue to monitor the threat locally and respond appropriately. There will not be any change to our levels of commitment when it comes to protecting our communities.”
You can find out more about how the threat levels are set, what they mean and when they have changed, by visiting the Security Service MI5 website.
