Counter-Terrorism Publicity Campaign Launched

Your call could save lives - that's the message of a new counter-terrorism publicity campaign launched by the Metropolitan Police Service today.

The public play a vital role in helping the police and security services in fighting terrorism and are being encouraged to contact the confidential Anti-Terrorist Hotline if they see any activity or behaviour they think is suspicious.

The four week campaign consists of two 40-second radio adverts and three press adverts which will feature on radio stations and in newspapers across London.

The threat to the UK from terrorism remains real and serious and public vigilance and awareness is crucial in helping to create a hostile environment for terrorists.

The radio adverts recognise that some people may be reluctant to report suspicious activity or behaviour, such as a person taking an unusual interest in security arrangements, because 'Chances are, it's probably nothing'.

But it goes on to encourage people to think 'But what if it isn't'?

Just one piece of information could be vital in helping disrupt terrorist planning and, in turn, save lives.

The press adverts focus on the fact that terrorists preparing attacks live in our communities and can leave tell tale signs which the public are encouraged to look out for.

One advert includes a picture of what appears to be a normal neighbourhood garage brimming with bottles of chemicals and boxes. It asks the reader to consider what they see and questions whether the garage is being used by a handyman, a pest controller - or whether it is being used as storage by a bomb maker.

Assistant Commissioner John Yates, Head of MPS Specialist Operations, said: "We know from recent significant events that the threat from terrorism is very real so we need the public to be vigilant.

"There continues to be a multi-faceted threat from groups ranging from Al-Qaeda inspired groups, Irish-related terrorism and right wing extremists.

"This campaign is asking the public to consider whether there is anything suspicious or unusual about the things they see every day and designed to raise awareness of the types of behaviour that we have seen among terrorists preparing attacks while living in our communities.

"I completely understand that some people may have concerns about contacting police with their suspicions, but let me reassure them that all information received by the confidential Anti-Terrorist Hotline is thoroughly analysed and researched by experienced officers before, and if, any police action is taken.

"I would urge anyone who has information about suspicious activity to contact the Anti-Terrorist Hotline.”

(BMcN/GK)