The UK’s terror alert status has been raised to critical – the highest possible level – indicating that the security services believe a terrorist attach is imminent.
Over the weekend five people were arrested, but at least one other is believed to be on the run. One of those arrested is believed to be a doctor.
Info4security brings you a round-up from the major national news services, with links to the full coverage of the story.
Police and the security services are still hunting for at least three members of an al-Qaida linked terrorist cell suspected of attempting to commit mass murder using car bombs in London and Glasgow. Counter-terrorism officers believe the cell has at least eight members, linked by a controlling “Mr Big”.
-The Guardian
The prophecy that occupying Iraq meant attacking al-Qaida has proved grimly self-fulfilling. Osama bin Laden’s network has become associated with resistance to British and American involvement in Iraq – either directly, or by using the fate of Iraqis as supposed proof of the west’s malign intentions towards Muslims. Can it be denied that the invasion encouraged a growth in al-Qaida’s threat and influence?
– The Guardian
The terrorist group behind the latest wave of bombing plots has not yet been neutralised and other attacks could hit cities in the United Kingdom, security sources told The Times yesterday.
– The Times
We face a long-term terrorist campaign against Britain, which may last for years; the organisation and training of the terrorists will improve. The danger will become greater.
– The Times
Home Secretary Jacqui Smith defended the decision not to raise the terror alert level to critical earlier in the light of suggestions that the new Brown administration could be a target.
She told the BBC that decisions on the level of alert were taken by an independent committee, which properly raised the level to critical after attempted bombings.
– The BBC
Cars were banned from approaching airport terminals last night as unprecedented security measures were enforced to combat a suspected al-Qa’eda bombing campaign.
The terrorist threat level was at “critical” – its highest – after two car bombs were found in London and a third, potentially devastating, attack was narrowly averted at Glasgow airport.
It has forced police and the Government to take the draconian step of closing off all forecourts at airports. Passengers cannot be picked up or dropped off and must instead be directed to outlying car parks and bussed in.
– The Telegraph
