Protecting the public from terrorism
Protect Terrorism
What is terrorism?
Terrorism is serious violent crime intended to cause large-scale
fear and panic. It is usually directed against a large number of
people and committed for a political purpose. It may involve the
placing of a bomb in a crowded place such as a street, pub, bus or
train, the taking of hostages or the murder of one or more people
at random.
Support and advice
We have a group of advisers who help us to work with the
national security services, to recognise and deal with threats of
terrorism, and investigate possible terrorist groups in the area.
We also try to understand where the threats may come from. There is
almost always an international connection to the motives of
terrorists.
- No one racial, religious or ethnic group presents a particular
threat of terrorism. You should never be suspicious of anyone
simply because of his or her skin colour, race, nationality or
religion. Prejudice is often the outcome of unfounded fear.
- Be vigilant. Unattended bags or packages in the street or any
other public place, or on a bus or train, should be reported
immediately to the police or the person in charge.
- Never approach anyone you suspect of terrorism. Always inform
the police and be prepared to tell them the reasons for your
suspicions.
- Ammonium Nitrate is a common fertiliser that can be used as an
explosive. If you use it, it should be kept in a secure place, and
you should check it carefully and often to make sure it doesn't
missing. As part of the ongoing national counter-terrorist
strategy, Merseyside Police are raising awareness amongst the
agricultural and horticultural community regarding the need for
security and safe storage of Ammonium Nitrate fertiliser.
This campaign is directed by the National Counter Terrorism
Security Office - see More Information
- If you require further protective security advice please email
ctsa@merseyside.police.uk
How to report suspicions of terrorism
- If you see an unattended bag or package indoors, for example,
in a shopping centre or public building, inform an employee of the
building you are in. They may know why it's there. If there's no
explanation for it, they should dial 999.
- If the bag or package is in an open space, or if no employees
are around, dial 999 immediately yourself, but do
not approach or touch the bag.
- If you have any other information or suspicions about terrorist
activity, email us at: prevent@merseyside.police.uk
or phone us on 101.
- You can also use the national anti-terrorist hotline to report
information in confidence phone: 0800 789 321
- You can also contact CTSA (Counter Terrorism Security Advisors)
on phone number 101.
Couldn't find what you were looking for? Find more information in our
Frequently Asked Questions