[A]rmed police have been deployed onto the streets of Cumbria after the terror threat level was increased to Critical.
Cumbria Constabulary, alongside all forces nationally, is supporting Op Temperer.
Following the appalling terrorist attack in Manchester, Operation Temperer was activated on Tuesday night after the Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre (JTAC) raised the threat level to “critical”. This means that their assessment is not only that an attack remains highly likely, but a further attack may be imminent.
Cumbria Constabulary’s Assistant Chief Constable Sean Robinson said: “As many will be aware the national threat level has now been increased to critical, and we are working closely with our colleagues across the country to do everything possible to protect the public.
“Public safety, as always, remains our priority in Cumbria and therefore people will see an increased police presence throughout the county.
“This increased presence will include the deployment of unarmed and armed police officers. We would ask people who see armed police officers not to be alarmed by this; they are there to provide visible reassurance.
“I can assure the public that Cumbria Constabulary is working with forces and other agencies across the country to ensure we are all informed of the current intelligence picture as it develops.
“We are also working with event organisers to ensure robust systems are in place for the policing of upcoming events to prioritise the safety of attendees.
“We would ask the people of Cumbria to go about their business as normal today whilst exercising increased vigilance. The public should remain calm and alert, and report any suspicious activity to police on 101 or the Anti-Terrorist Hotline 0800 789 321. Always dial 999 in an emergency.
“Our thoughts remain with the people affected by the events in Manchester. We will continue to work with our partners and the public to unite against those who seek to create fear and intimidation.”
Assistant Commissioner Mark Rowley, head of national Counter Terrorism Policing, said: “The public expects us to do everything we can to prevent further attacks and to protect them from harm. They will see increased police patrols in the coming days, while there will be more armed officers at key locations, transport hubs and crowded places to deter terrorists and reassure the public. We are grateful to the military who have enabled us to put even more police on the streets to protect the public at this time.
“It is critical that the public work with us and remain vigilant. If you see anything that causes concern, then let us know immediately. Look out for anything that seems out of place, unusual or doesn’t seem to fit in with day-to-day life. It may be nothing, but if you see or hear anything that could be terrorist-related then trust your instinct and call us in confidence on 0800 789 321, or in an emergency 999.”
