LAWFUEL – The Law Newswire – Over the next few months officers are being encouraged to use stop and search powers under the Terrorism Act 2000 across London to deter, disrupt and prevent terrorist activity.
The threat from terrorism is real and serious. As we have seen terrorists can strike at any time and any place without warning.
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.
Commander Rod Jarman, MPS said: “You may see an increase in overt counter terrorism activities by the police 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 out 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 assume that they will try again.”
“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.
NOTE: Preliminary stats for July 2007
Stats: Sec 44 stops
July 2007 = 10948
The monthly average for 2006/07 was 2114
Confirmed financial year Totals:
2004/05 = 13519
2005/06 = 23020
2006/07 = 25374
