Armed officers taken off West Midlands streets as terror threat level reduced
Armed police are today being taken off the streets after the UK’s terror threat level was reduced to severe.
West Midlands Police is withdrawing its armed officers from patrolling streets and guarding landmark locations in the region.
However the officers will remain on standby and will be in police cars and vans around the region as a terror attack remains ‘highly likely’.
Chief Constable Dave Thompson thanked the public for all the support they had shown him and his officers after last Monday’s terror attack saw the UK’s threat level raised to critical and armed units deployed all over the West Midlands.
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More than 20 sites in the West Midlands have been guarded by armed officers, while there has also been an increased police presence at many more locations since 22 people died in the terrorist attack in Manchester
Officers have been working overtime, supported by 140 firearms officers from the Civil Nuclear Constabulary.
Mr Thompson said: “Many people are approaching officers simply to say thank you, ask questions or shake their hand. Local businesses are also showing their support by offering refreshments for officers on patrol.
“These are concerning times for everyone and I don’t underestimate how unnerving it might be for people to see police carrying guns on the streets.
“But the increased police presence has really been welcomed by the public. I want them to know that their support is hugely appreciated and has been a boost for our officers. I sense there is a real feeling that we are all in this together.
“People get into policing to help and protect the public and never has that been more important than now. I’m immensely proud of our officers, they have risen to the challenge brilliantly and made sacrifices to keep the public safe.”
Despite the armed officers being withdrawn from the streets and the country’s threat level being reduced, it is still deemed ‘highly likely’ that an attack will take place.
Mr Thompson added: “We would ask people if they see anything that causes concern to call the police or the Anti-Terror Hotline. Don’t ignore your suspicions.
"We would rather respond to what turns out to be a false alarm than not be notified of a genuine threat – all information will be taken seriously.”
Those looking to report suspicious activity can call the police on 101, or in an emergency 999, as well as the Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 32.
