Everyone who works, lives and visits London has a role to play in helping to counter the terrorist threat which most certainly remains real and serious.
The police service fully understands that people may be reluctant to tell them about suspicious activity or behaviour, but they stress that all calls to the confidential Anti-Terrorist Hotline are taken by specially trained officers and that information is thoroughly analysed and researched before (and if) any action is taken.
No piece of information is considered too small or insignificant.
Now, the four-week campaign entitled: “It’s probably nothing, but …” consists of local newspaper adverts and one 40-second radio ad across London. Leaflets will also be distributed to 1.4 million households in the Capital.
Everyone must remain vigilant and aware
DAC Stuart Osborne, the senior national co-ordinator for counter-terrorism, said: “The terrorist threat to London, and the UK generally, remains real and serious so it’s vital that everyone continues to be vigilant and aware.”
He continued: “We at the Metropolitan Police Service have a key role to play in countering this threat, whether it’s from Al-Qaeda inspired groups or individuals or Irish Dissident Republican Groups, but we can only do this with the support of all our communities.”
The counter-terrorism specialist added: “Terrorists live among us. We want you to tell us about anyone or anything you see which is out of place in your normal day-to-day lives. We know you may have concerns about speaking to the police, possibly because your friends or family may find out, but you may well have information which could save lives.”
DAC Osborne stressed: “We would rather take lots of calls which are made in good faith, but have innocent explanations, rather than not getting any at all. Not making that call could mean we miss out on a vital piece of information.”
He concluded: “Our priority is to keep the public safe, but we can only do that with your help. Please trust your instincts. Call the confidential Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321.”
