A publicity campaign launched by the Metropolitan Police is urging Londoners to trust their instincts to help police in the fight against terrorism; and potentially save lives.
Everyone who works, lives and visits the capital has a role to play in helping to counter the terrorist threat which remains real and serious.
The five-week campaign, “It’s probably nothing, but …” encourages anyone who sees or hears something that they think could terrorist related to call the Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321.
The campaign consists of adverts in local and minority ethnic newspapers and a 40-second radio advert across London. Leaflets will also be distributed to 1.4 million households in the capital.
The campaign is also being supported by the counter terrorism network and ACPO TAM with versions of the radio advert being broadcast on commericial stations across England.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Stuart Osborne, Senior National Co-ordinator Counter Terrorism, said: “Protecting Londoners from terrorism is one of the top priorities for the Metropolitan Police Service. The threat, whether it is from Al-Qaeda inspired groups or individuals, dissident Irish republican groups or other violent extremists, is still a real and serious one.
“You know the area where you live better than anyone else so we ask you to be vigilant, trust your instincts and tell us about anyone or anything you see which is out of place in your normal day to day lives.
“No piece of information is considered too small or insignificant. Our specialist officers would rather take lots of calls which turn out to have an innocent explanation than miss out on a vital piece of information.
“We understand that you may have concerns about speaking to the police – possibly because you think your friends or family may find out or because you don’t want to get people into trouble. However, all calls are treated in the strictest confidence and information is thoroughly assessed before – and if – any further action is taken.
“Please help us to create a difficult environment for the terrorist. Your call really could save lives.
“Terrorists live among us while they are planning their attacks so we need the help of all our communities to pass on any suspicions to the Anti Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321.”
Police fully understand that people may be reluctant to tell them about suspicious activity or behaviour because they think “It ‘s probably nothing”. But they stress that all calls to the confidential Anti-Terrorist Hotline are taken by specially trained officers who thoroughly analyse and research the information before deciding what to do next. No piece of information is considered too small or insignificant.
In an emergency people should always dial 999, police add.
