Extra security at centre following Liverpool bomb
HIGHCROSS shopping centre is to introduce extra security measures after the UK terror threat level was increased to severe in the wake of the Liverpool hospital bomb attack.
With the risk of an attack somewhere in the UK now deemed highly likely, the centre has announced it is to introduce random vehicle checks, ID checks and other measures.
Retailers in Highcross received a letter in which the management explained the changes and urged workers to report any suspicious activity.
While there are no specific threats to the shopping centre or to Leicester, staff have been reminded to stay vigilant.
The Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre increased the national threat assessment following the explosion outside Liverpool Women’s Hospital on Remembrance Sunday.
Highcross security will now be stepped-up within all parts of the centre, including delivery areas and other sections not open to the public
A spokesman for Highcross said: “Our top priority continues to be the safety of our customers and colleagues.
“Although there is no specific threat to Highcross, we checked in with our brands to ensure colleagues are well briefed on emergency procedures following the UK national threat level rising.”
The centre continues to liaise with local counter-terrorism security advisers, it said.
Home Secretary Priti Patel said: “It is important the public remains alert to the threat from terrorism but not alarmed.
“I urge anyone with information or who suspects any suspicious activity to report it to the police.”
The suspected terrorist has been named as 32-year-old Emad Al Swealmeen.
Counter Terrorism Police North West said they “strongly believe” Al Swealmeen was the passenger who died when a taxi exploded shortly before 11am on Sunday.
HIGHCROSS TO MAKE MORE CHECKS AFTER THREAT LEVEL INCREASED