HUNDREDS of police officers are to step-up patrols in busy public spaces as Christmas approaches to offer reassurance and advice as part of a counter-terrorism awareness campaign.
The activity is not in response to any specific threat and Police Scotland said it is acting on a recent survey which found terrorism is one of the biggest concerns across the country.
British Transport Police, firefighters and paramedics are also involved in the campaign, with a focus on promoting safety, security advice and guidance in crowded public spaces like town and city centres.
Police Scotland said “500 resources will be utilised” on Friday, with high-visibility patrols and a series of public engagements.
It comes as part of a UK-wide Counter Terrorism Awareness Week which runs to December 4.
Assistant Chief Constable Bernard Higgins said: “The recent findings from the ‘Your View Counts’ survey showed us that Scotland’s communities see terrorism as one of their biggest concerns, reflecting the current threat level from international terrorism.
“We have responded accordingly to demonstrate the everyday work we carry out alongside our partners to keep the public safe and informed on relevant security issues.
“Friday November 25 is traditionally a busy shopping day with the start of the Christmas shopping sales, meaning towns and cities across the country will be extremely busy.
“I would stress that this initiative is not being carried out in response to any specific intelligence, but to ensure our communities have all the information and support they require to keep safe by being alert, not alarmed, remaining vigilant and reporting any suspicious behaviour.
“It has often been said that ‘communities defeat terrorism’, and I am firmly of the belief that this is the case. We must all ensure that the threat posed by terrorists operating worldwide does not undermine the positive relationships which exist across communities in Scotland.”
People are being urged to go about their business as usual but are asked to be vigilant and report suspicious behaviour.
British Transport Police Chief Superintendent John McBride said: “We should be proud of the fact that we have a largely open and accessible transport network in this country. However this means the police and public must work together to ensure it remains as secure and safe as possible.
“Millions of people travel on our railways every week. For commuters, who make the same journey over and over again, it can be easy to become oblivious to their surroundings.
“Working together, utilising the eyes and the ears of rail staff and the public in our surveillance of the transport system, combined with our already substantial CCTV coverage, provides the best opportunity of keeping the network safe by detecting and stopping attacks.”
Justice Secretary Michael Matheson said: “Understandably, many people in Scotland have concerns about the threats posed by terrorism. That is why initiatives like Counter Terrorism Awareness Week are important, providing practical advice that can help ensure we all remain safe and secure.”
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