Counter Terrorism Policing

"All police officers are trained to a high level… from an armed officer's perspective, we focus a lot on tactics, health and safety, and first aid - one of our core drivers. But also how you use the advanced tactics used for firearms alongside modern policing principles…” We spoke to Detective Chief Inspector Mark Dickson from Nottinghamshire Police, who is responsible for armed officers throughout the county, about the specialist training, teamwork, and precision that go into the role of firearms units. From national threats to rapid response, these officers are some of the most highly trained professionals in policing. Officers across the country regularly take part in training exercises to ensure we are prepared for major incidents, including terror attacks.

"That was fiction, but my message to parents or carers of schoolchildren is that you are not helpless, and you can do something right now that could help protect your child." Detective Superintendent Jane Corrigan from the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command shares her reaction to Netflix drama Adolescence - as both a parent and London’s Prevent lead - and the importance of open communication between parent and child on the dangers of online radicalisation. 

Today saw landmark anti-terror legislation, known as Martyn’s Law, gain Royal Assent and became law. This new law will aim to deliver increased protection by making sure premises and events are better prepared in the event of terrorism to protect the public. Named in tribute to Martyn Hett who was tragically killed in the 2017 Manchester Arena attack, the legislation will have an implementation phase for at least 24 months so that businesses can plan and prepare. Jon Savell, Counter Terrorism Policing’s Senior National Coordinator for Protect and Prepare, said:   “Martyn’s Law will ensure that the public have additional protection from terrorist attacks while at events and public venues. We will continue to work with businesses and with the government to make sure premises have the support they need to prepare for the implementation of the Act. “Figen Murray has campaigned tirelessly for the introduction of this legislation and it’s thanks to her unwavering determination that it has achieved Royal Assent.” For more information on Martyn’s Law, visit www.protectuk.police.uk 

It’s the final episode of our podcast mini-series 😭 and it’s definitely one you won’t want to miss as we step into the world of forensics and CSI 🔬 Using a cypher to protect her identity, Forensic and Digital Investigator ‘Cassandra’ discusses her 40 years of experience piecing together evidence to give a voice to those who no longer speak for themselves. From rural crime scenes to countering terror threats – you’ll hear how science, technology and teamwork play a crucial role in protecting the public every day. This series shines a light on the remarkable women working hard behind the scenes to protect the public. Enjoy the final episode and stay tuned for more exciting content in the future. Listen now on Acast, Apple, or Spotify 🎧 https://lnkd.in/gzxxzPWT

“It is hugely motivating to know that your work has real value and can make a difference to someone when they need it most.” Part of the Product Development Unit in the National Counter Terrorism Security Office, Chloe works in a team dedicated to producing resources and training for the public, such as the ACT E-Learning. Learn how our Police Staff make a real difference to the world of Counter Terrorism by reading Chloe’s story ➡ https://lnkd.in/eBpztXRD

Earlier this month, the Home Office released 2024 data showing the number of arrests made for terrorism-related activity is at a five-year high. The public contacted our Anti-Terrorist Hotline and its online equivalent, gov.uk/ACT, close to 22,000 times during the year. After being reviewed, one in five reports are passed to investigators, meaning you are providing information that is relevant and important to our investigations. If you’re concerned that someone might be taking a dangerous path, get support at gov.uk/ACT. You can also report suspicious activity by contacting us in confidence on 0800 789 321. https://lnkd.in/eikSdPsQ

2024 has seen a rise in harmful online networks consisting of predominantly teenage boys, often known as Com networks (short for Community). Reports increased six-fold in the UK from 2022 to 2024, with millions of messages now being sent online relating to sexual and physical abuse. The NCA is encouraging parents and carers to have regular conversations with their child about what they do online, and ensure they know they have your support should they need it. For more advice, visit ➡️ www.ceopeducation.co.uk

From teacher… to tracking down terrorists… 🔍 In the latest episode of the Inside Counter Terrorism Policing podcast, we step into the unpredictable world of intelligence assessment, where no two days are the same and one piece of information can change the course of an investigation. Using a cypher to protect her identity, intelligence assessor ‘Heidi’ shares what it’s like to sift through intelligence, make critical decisions, and help prevent threats before they unfold. This series highlights the extraordinary women working behind the scenes to keep the public safe. New episodes drop every Thursday. Hear more about Heidi’s journey and the fast-moving world of counter terrorism by listening on Acast, Apple, or Spotify. 🎧 https://lnkd.in/gzxxzPWT

“Due to the varied disciplines our unit covers, each day is unique. I switch from focusing on Pathogens & Toxins to Radiological Sources quickly.” Vicki is the Head of Hazardous Sites & Substances at the National Counter Terrorism Security Office, responsible for creating protective security policies for sites that handle hazardous materials, as well as providing security advice to environmental regulators. The roles of Police Staff at CTP are varied, and Vicki tells us about her career, from working in the Costa del Sol to working as a Counter Terrorism Security Advisor (CTSA). Read Vicki’s story ➡ https://lnkd.in/ea2fq2jH

Today marks eight years since the Westminster Bridge terror attack and we pay tribute to the lives that were lost that day. Kurt Cochran, Leslie Rhodes, Aysha Frade, Andreea Cristea and PC Keith Palmer. We continue to remember them, their families, survivors and everyone affected.