Massive task to safeguard the leaders

‘Threats to the G7 are very real’

ASTHE world watches the leaders of the world’s seven wealthiest countries in Cornwall, the security services are watching, too.

With 700 supporters of Islamic extremism on MI5’S watchlist, and ever-growing threats from Russia, China and Iran, a ring of steel has been placed around the summit.

Headed by UK Special Forces but overseen by counter-terrorist command, Operation Trelawny features more than 2,000 service personnel – as well as a 50-strong US Delta Force contingent – joining police and counter-terror agencies.

A 40-strong SAS and 30-member SBS unit were supported by two helicopters based two minutes from the Carbis Bay Hotel.

The teams have the capability to seize a building held by militants, intercept known terrorists and mount hostage rescue operations.

Specialist army teams were also drafted in.the presence of units from 16 Regiment Royal Artillery, equipped with the new anti-aircraft

Sky Sabre system and advanced radar, give a clear indication that they are primed for a 9/11-style suicide attack.

President Biden also came prepared. Apart from his personal secret service agents, US Special Forces personnel are understood to be based at RNAS Culdrose, with US Marine Corpsv-22 Osprey helicopters in support.

At sea, 10 Royal Navy vessels are off St Ives, providing extra security.these range from four coastal patrols, two offshore patrol vessels, atype 23 frigate and the new carrier Prince ofwales, complete with Apache gunships. The carrier’s presence means that an Astute submarine is nearby.

More than 6,000 police officers have been drafted into the area, including 23 armed response units, 12 dogs teams and two hostage negotiation teams.

While the 700 on MI5’S watchlist were closely monitored leading up to the summit, sources last night revealed that the biggest concern is a “cleanskin” – someone unknown to security services and already in Cornwall.

Last night one senior source said: “This summit has seven world leaders under one roof, and the potential to attract both terrorists and those who see the event as a chance to highlight their message.

“We were always confident that the hotel would be very secure. But threats from elsewhere are very real.”