23.03.16
BTP deploy extra resources following Brussels terrorist attacks
Following the terrorist attacks in Brussels yesterday morning, British Transport Police (BTP) announced they are deploying extra resources on Britain’s transport networks.
The attacks in Brussels began at 7.00am GMT yesterday with two explosions at Zaventem airport, followed by a third bomb around an hour later at Maelbeek metro station.
The death toll is currently estimated at 34.
Following the attacks Steve Thomas, the BTP’s assistant chief constable, said: “The safety of the travelling public and rail staff in England, Scotland and Wales remains our absolute priority. British Transport Police will continue to have highly visible officers across the train and tube network and as a precaution following the events in Brussels, is deploying extra resources at key locations.
“This does not mean we have specific intelligence about those stations where the officers are posted, just that we are prepared for any eventuality. The national threat level is currently unchanged and remains ‘severe’ which means everyone has a responsibility to stay alert and report any activity or items which seem suspicious.”
In an interview on the BBC’s Victoria Derbyshire programme Lord Reid, the home secretary from 2006 to 2007, said that terrorist attacks were likely on ‘soft targets’ such as transport networks and crowded public places.
Britain’s security agencies and police, including BTP, are running expert counter-terrorism operations and seven terrorist plots on UK soil were defeated last year. The threat of a terror attack on Britain’s rail networks remains remote, but it is worth noting basic security procedures.
Passengers are being urged to avoid leaving luggage unattended to prevent false alarms, and to report anything suspicious to the confidential Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321.
Theresa May, the home secretary, will make a statement to the House of Commons about the attacks after Prime Minister’s Questions today.
RTM’s thoughts are with all of those killed and injured in the Brussels attacks and their families.
(Image c. Gareth Fuller from PA Wire)