Vigilance is urged after terror attacks
HALTON residents are being urged to remain vigilant despite the reduction in the UK’s terror threat level.
Operation Temperer was activated by Prime Minister Theresa May in the wake of the terrorist attack at the Manchester Arena last month.
But the withdrawal of resources connected with the operation has now taken place.
Cheshire police has stood down the overt armed foot patrols conducted by Cheshire And North Wales Alliance officers, ably assisted by colleagues from the Ministry Of Defence.
In response to the increase in the UK’s terror threat level, armed officers were deployed at last Monday’s Widnes Vikings game against Leeds Rhinos at the Select Security Stadium.
A Cheshire police spokesman said additional armed and unarmed resources will remain on duty as a de-escalation plan is commenced to return to an appropriate level of policing for the threat level of severe.
It means a further terrorist threat in the UK is now assessed as being ‘highly likely’.
Cheshire’s Assistant Chief Constable Nick Bailey said: “I’d like to thank communities across Cheshire for the wonderful assistance they’ve provided during what has been a difficult time.
“We have all been very proud to see the way the county has pulled together following the attacks in Manchester and London to help reassure and keep residents, workers and visitors to Cheshire safe. The tragic events touched us all and our thoughts are still very much with all those affected, including the family, friends and colleagues of our own officer, Elaine McIver, who was one of the 22 who died.
“The terror threat level has now been reduced from Critical to Severe, which means an attack is still assessed as being highly likely. Whilst armed patrols and support from the Ministry Of Defence will be scaled back in line with national protocols, we will still have a strong police presence on the streets and armed officers will continue to support this.
“I would remind members of the public to remain vigilant and report any concerns or suspicions to us immediately.”
Cheshire Police And Crime Commissioner David Keane said: “During the past week we have seen some wonderful work by our officers and staff to help ensure people across Cheshire have been kept safe following the devastating attacks.
“With the terror threat level now reduced I’d urge members of the public to remain vigilant.”
Halton residents are being reminded to remain alert, not alarmed and report any suspicious activity to the Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321 or by dialing 999. ●