Decision not to declare stabbings a terrorist attack may have saved lives, police chief says

A DECISION not to declare the recent Birmingham stabbings as a possible terrorist attack may have saved lives because it meant ambulances were able to get to the scene more quickly, a report has concluded.

One man died and another seven were injured following a stabbing rampage in the city centre on Sept 6.

West Midlands Police were criticised over their handling of the incident with claims that officers were slow to react.

However, a report into what possible lessons could be learnt said that the police response was “reasonable and well considered”. It also stated that the decision not to declare the stabbings as a marauding terrorist attack – something known as Operation Plato – may have saved lives because it allowed medics to get to the scene more quickly.

Chief Constable Dave Thompson told West Midlands policing and crime board: “Had Operation Plato been declared it is possible that medical aid may have been delayed and there may have been further loss of life.”

He said the decision on when to i mplement Operation Plato was a “dilemma” for forces nationally, with the procedure undergoing constant “refinement”.

Mr Thompson added: “On t he marauding attack aspect, I am very satisfied the decisions made on the night were right.”

But he conceded that the force could have followed West Midlands Ambulance Service on the separate issue of formally declaring the attacks a major incident “more quickly” on the night, which would have assisted co-ordination of multi-agency resources.

The report found “police officers and staff, at all levels, responded appropriately and professionally to save lives, secure evidence and apprehend the offender”.

A man was arrested after the attacks and is awaiting trial, scheduled to take place in the new year.