Date:  20 March 2003

KEEPING WEST MIDLANDS SAFE

West Midlands Police is working hard to ensure public safety, disrupt any potential terrorist activity and are asking people across the region to help.

Chief Constable Paul SCOTT-LEE said

“There is no specific threat to the West Midlands , however it is  recognised  that there is increased concern about the possibility of terrorist action”

Police will be increasing patrols across the region and officers will be paying particular attention to locations which may be considered more likely to be at risk. Specific planned operations, such as road checks, will also occur at key points.

The force is constantly reviewing both intelligence, and contingency plans for any incidents that may occur.

Paul SCOTT-LEE said  “We are also asking people in the West Midlands to help us keep the region safe.”

We want to hear from anyone who sees anything a suspicious vehicle, package or person. These are difficult to define and we advise people to rely on instinct about whether something is suspicious. In any case we would always rather that people call us if in any doubt.

Anything that arouses suspicion should be reported to the police.  West Midlands Police can be contacted on 0845 113 5000, the Anti Terrorist Hotline is 0800 789321 and for emergencies the number is 999.

We will act on information from the public and potential security risks will be taken seriously. This will mean that sometimes roads are closed and buildings evacuated but we are sure that people in the region will understand that public safety must always be our first concern and we hope that they will react in their customary reasonable and patient manner.

We are also sending a clear message that we will take action to protect the right of members of all faiths and communities to pursue their way of life as they wish, free of the fear of violence and intimidation.

We will not tolerate hate crime against individuals or communities on account of their race or religion and will act swiftly and decisively against those who carry them out.

Chief Inspector Steve Glover said: “Whilst there is no specific threat, we recognise there is increased concern about terrorism here and across the world.

“We are vigilant at all times and we are encouraging our officers to step up their efforts still further to keep the region safe.”

“A variety of tactics will be used and people can expect to see a more visible police presence on the streets. We hope this will help to reassure people that everything is being done to ensure their safety.”

“We also need the help of people across the whole region, in particular by being vigilant about suspicious activity and co-operating with police activity which is aimed at keeping us all safe.

For further information please contact the Press & Public Relations Department on 0121 626 5858.