Scheme Launched by MET Police
A major initiative designed to increase awareness of security and counter terrorism policing in London is being launched by the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS).
The initiative – known as Operation Penna – is the second operation of its kind run by the MPS.It involves co-ordinated activity focussed on reminding the public of the vital role they can play in helping to protect the capital.
Activity will be taking place across all 32 boroughs between 13 – 24 January 2014, with tactics including high visibility patrols around crowded places such as shopping centres and transport hubs.
Officers will be providing information and briefings to businesses explaining the ongoing threat from terrorism and what they can do to protect themselves from it.
Briefings will also be held for officers and staff on every borough to highlight the key part they play in counter-terrorism policing by providing a link between national expertise and mainstream neighbourhood policing.
Commander Richard Morris, from Specialist Operations, said: “Everyone has a role to play in keeping London safe from terrorism. This operation sees specialist officers working closely with neighbourhood officers and communities raising awareness of security in London.
“We want to build on our engagement with communities and businesses in a variety of ways to counter the threat from terrorism. Our aim is to raise awareness and improve protection from a terrorist attack and other crimes.
“The threat to London from terrorism remains real and serious so we encourage the public to remain vigilant and alert and to report anything suspicious to police.”
The operation is being co-ordinated by Specialist Operations in partnership with local officers across the MPS.
Anyone who has any information about unusual activity or behaviour should contact the confidential Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321.
