The National Counter Terrorism Security Office (NaCTSO) is a police unit that supports the government in counter-terrorism activities. Before Christmas, they began their Winter Vigilance campaign to keep the public safe through the winter months.
The advice given by NaCTSO is standard for the general public. Still, as security professionals, we should be aware that we are in a unique position to protect the public and should heed the advice given.
The overriding rule is that if you see something that doesn’t appear right, you should report it to the police, however small. The police are not concerned with following up on innocent leads. However, missing a possible chance to stop terrorists could have devastating consequences.
Things to look out for include:
Unattended bags
An unattended bag could be a bomb, but the chances are it’s just an unattended bag. If, as a member of security, you notice a bag, then the first thing to do would be to ask around for its owner. However, if the bag has been deliberately placed out of view or has wires, tapes, batteries or liquids, then you need to use extreme caution and keep everyone at least 100 metres from the bag until police arrive.
Anyone filming exits, entrances and CCTV
Terrorists must plan attacks and often record vital information like this. If you see this kind of activity, you should act immediately and contact the police.
How to report suspicious activity
Don’t concern yourself with thinking you are making a fuss. And also, don’t assume that someone else has seen what you have seen and will have reported it.
There are several ways to report concerns.
- You can report suspicious activity in seconds by clicking on this link here.
- You can call 999 if it’s an emergency.
- You can call in confidence on 0800 789 321.
- You can go to https://act.campaign.gov.uk/ and report in confidence online.
What happens when you contact the police?
You may have worries that you are wasting police time or are in danger, but you do not have to give your name, and your call is in complete confidence. Specially trained officers will investigate the complaint and make further checks if necessary. If you have given your name, this will be protected.
