Stop and Search powers to be used to the full in the coming months
Ealing Police have issued the following message outlining what Ealing residents will already noticed - a marked increase in visible security measures across the borough.
"The threat from terrorism is real and serious. The level of terrorist activity has intensified and increased as groups and individuals aspire to mount attacks in the UK.
"There is no specific intelligence at this stage to suggest an attack in Ealing or London but as we have seen terrorists can strike at any time and any place without warning.
"Over the next few months the public may see a marked increase in visible security measures across the borough and the capital. Officers are being encouraged to use powers under the Terrorism Act 2000 to make it harder for terrorists to operate.
"Terrorists need to travel - meetings, training and planning can take place anywhere.
Terrorists need transport - they need to move equipment, material and people around.
Terrorists need to prepare - hostile reconnaissance and surveillance is carried out to plan attacks.
"Stop and search/account under the Terrorism Act 2000 is a vital tactic in our counter terrorism strategy. The powers can disrupt, deter and prevent terrorist activity, create a hostile environment for terrorists and provide a visible reassurance to the public.
"We understand being stopped by police may cause an inconvenience. But it is our duty to protect the public and their patience and co-operation will help keep London safe.
Community and Partnership Superintendent Ian Jenkins of Ealing Borough Police said:
“You may see an increase in counter terrorism activities by the police on our streets over the coming months.
"Terrorists live, work and blend in to our communities. They need information; accommodation; transport; communications; material; and storage. Terrorists can come from any background and live anywhere. They are as likely to be seen in quiet suburban roads as they are in inner-city areas.
"To compliment our more covert methods of fighting terrorism we must have a more visible presence to deter and prevent terrorist activity.
"In order to achieve this we need the support of the public. We ask for co-operation and patience while we carry out these important duties to help keep London safe.
"Terrorists have been thwarted, but as the appalling attacks of July 2005 and recent events demonstrate, we must maintain a high state of alert. It is vital that we all remain vigilant about security at all times.
"We ask all Londoners to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to our confidential Anti-Terrorist hotline - 0800 789 321.
"As a result, of the recent terrorism incidents across the country Ealing police have increased our visible police and partner agency presence in key areas - our transport links, our Town centres, our schools, vulnerable premises and any public events - across the borough.
"This is not a response to any specific threat in Ealing Borough. This increased presence is to increase local security, prevent crime and provide public reassurance particularly in communities where people may feel vulnerable at this time.
"This presence will continue for the foreseeable future and as mentioned earlier is not in response to any specific threat to the borough. We have engaged with partner agencies and with community representatives across the borough to ensure they are kept up to date with police plans."
July 25, 2007
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