Armed police in Coventry in wake of concert terror attack

ARMED police are on patrol at Coventry Railway Station and officers are stationed at city centre buildings in the wake of the Manchester terror attack.

Police carrying automatic weapons could be seen at the main entrance of the train station, while uniformed officers were also stationed at Broadgate and Pool Meadow Bus Station.

There was also a noticeable increase of bobbies on the beat in the city centre as West Midlands Police increased the force’s visibility in the city after the UK terrorism threat level was raised to “critical”. The move indicates that a further attack is imminent on British soil.

Coventry Railway Station and Pool Meadow are still operating as normal despite the heightened security.

A tweet from British Transport Police read: “You’ll see partnership working with British Transport Police and West Midlands Police at Coventry Railway Station over the next few days including firearms officers.”

A statement from West Midlands Police said: “At this stage there are no plans to deploy military officers in the West Midlands; therefore the public are unlikely to see military personnel on the streets.

“Support from the military will instead free up armed officers from certain guarding duties to release officers across the UK to support the wider national response.

As soon as the prime minister made her announcement, we implemented our locally tailored plan, including keeping officers on duty.

“We are flexing our resources and increasing our presence at key sites, such as transport and other crowded places and we continue to review key events and entertainment venues.

“People will notice an increase in the number of armed officers at these and other locations. While this is a precautionary measure, these highly visible patrols will continue for as long as is needed.

“You would expect us to do everything possible to prevent further attacks and keep you safe.

“At the same time we need your help. Please remain calm but alert. If you see anything that causes you concern, then let us know immediately, if you have suspicions about someone’s behaviour call us.

“Look out for anything that seems out of place, unusual or doesn’t seem to fit in with dayto-day life.”

At least 22 people have been killed and 59 injured after a terrorist attack at the Manchester Arena.

Thousands of gig-goers were packed into the venue to see American singer Ariana Grande when two explosions were reported.