Tube attack

EXTRA British Transport Police officers were deployed across the rail network following the terror attack at London Underground’s Parsons Green station on September 15.

Thirty people were injured when a home-made bomb partially exploded on a District Line train. The incident was reported to British Transport Police at 0823, and the UK threat level was immediately raised to critical, with more police patrolling stations and on the trains. Armed police were also deployed at various locations.

On September 15, Assistant Chief Constable Alun Thomas, head of Specialist Operations at BTP, said: “Now that the threat level has increased, we will be deploying a number of additional officers throughout the national rail network.

“Our officers have been given specialist training in counterterrorism policing - including behavioural awareness skills. This means that their day-to-day policing role is keenly focused on keeping passengers and staff as safe as possible.

“Over the coming days, we’ll be keeping a close eye to keep you safe, as well as making sure the nation’s railways keep functioning as usual.

“Everyone should remain calm, but vigilant. Rail passengers and staff are the eyes and ears of the network, and we want to hear from you if you see something that doesn’t look right. Nothing should be considered too small or insignificant - it may be vitally important to us.

On September 18, the threat level was lowered from critical to severe.

Operation Temperer, enacted by the Prime Minister, has allowed extra firearms officers from the Ministry of Defence Police to patrol alongside BTP.

BTP Assistant Chief Constable Robin Smith said: “Undoubtedly the terrorist incident at Parsons Green Tube station would have caused concern among the public. Therefore, we quickly took action to step up patrols and provide an enhanced level of visibility both on trains and at stations nationally.

“In the coming days, we will be maintaining this enhanced level of visibility throughout the country. This means that those members of the public travelling to work can feel at ease knowing we’re out there keeping them safe. “Of course, it is important that the public continue to be alert and not alarmed. If you see something that does not look right to you, let us know immediately. Contact us by sending a text to 61016 or call the anti-terrorist hotline on 0800 789321.”

A Transport for London spokesman told RAIL that it was deploying security measures, but was unable to confirm what these were due to security reasons.

Two suspects have been detained regarding the attack.