24.05.17
BTP steps up officer numbers at stations as terrorist threat level raised
The presence of police officers at UK railway stations has been stepped up today in light of Monday’s terrorist attack in Manchester.
Manchester Victoria, which is right next to where the incident at Manchester Arena took place, has remained closed as police investigate, and Northern today stated that the station would not open again for a number of days.
“Manchester Victoria station will remain closed on Wednesday and it could be several days before it reopens,” said Northern’s regional director Liam Sumpter.
“Our thoughts are with the families and friends of the people who have lost their lives and those who were injured on Monday evening.”
And today, the RMT called off its triple strike action on Northern, Southern and Merseyrail services on 30 May, saying that “our thoughts and solidarity at this time are with the people of Manchester”.
In response to Theresa May raising the threat level to critical last night, the British Transport Police (BTP) has increased the number of officers on platforms to stamp out any suspicious activity.
“Our officers have been given specialist training in counter terrorism policing – including behavioural awareness skills,” said Adrian Hanstock, deputy chief constable of the BTP. “This means that their day-to-day policing role is keenly focused on keeping passengers and staff as safe as possible.”
Hanstock also asserted that over the next few days the police would be keeping a close eye on train stations to make sure that the railway continues functioning as normal.
“I want to take this opportunity to remind everyone to stay calm, be vigilant, and if you spot anything at all which gives you cause for concern, let us know,” he said.
“In light of the dreadful events over these last few days, and last night’s increase to the national threat level, nothing should be considered too trivial to report and any information – regardless of whether you feel it is significant or not – may be important to all of us.”
Top Image: Danny Lawson PA Wire
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