THE counter terrorism policing (CTP) and UK Intelligence Services have stopped seven late-stage terror attacks since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, according to a statement.
The total number of foiled terrorism plots since March 2017 was 32 – with 18 related to Islamist extremism, 12 to extreme right-wing terrorism and two to left, anarchist or single-issue terrorism, it added.
Statistics from the Home Office revealed there were a total of 188 arrests for terrorism-related activity in the year ending 30 September 2021.
Deputy assistant commissioner Dean Haydon, senior national coordinator for CTP, said: “The UK has suffered two terror attacks in quick succession, with the national threat level raising to Severe – meaning an attack is highly likely. It takes a whole society approach to effectively tackle terrorism, and co-operation between the police and the public is vital, so we need you to be vigilant, and we need you to be alert.
“As we approach the festive period, we need the public to help play their part in protecting the UK. That means trusting your instincts and contacting us if you see something that doesn’t feel right - we get 10,000 reports of suspected terrorist activity from the public every year and around 20 per cent of those are useful intelligence that helps officers stop terrorists.
“I would urge everyone to remain vigilant and ACT by reporting it to us confidentially via gov.uk/ACT or by calling 0800 789 321. In an emergency, always dial 999.”
According to the statement, despite the overall reduction in arrests, 25 children were arrested in relation to terrorism offending – the highest number ever recorded in a 12-month period.
DAC Haydon added: “Our research tells us that parents, family members and friends are the first to see the changes in behaviour which might indicate that a loved one is being radicalised. But currently, just 3 per cent of people we help through Prevent come to the programme because of concerns raised by those same people who know them best."
For details-www.actearly.uk
