Don’t Rely on Others to Make That Vital Call Say Police

West Mercia Constabulary is urging the public to make sure they remain vigilant and not to rely on others to report suspicious behaviour.

The appeal comes at the start of a nationwide campaign to raise awareness of the Anti-Terrorist Hotline 0800 789 321 - a dedicated number staffed 24 hours a day by specialist counter-terrorism officers.

A series of ‘Don't Rely On Others' press, billboard and radio adverts will urge people to ring the number if they have concerns about unusual behaviour or activity in their neighbourhood.

The security threat in Britain remains at a ‘severe' level and West Mercia Constabulary believes members of the public across our four areas; Herefordshire, Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin and Worcestershire, can play an important part in helping to disrupt terrorist planning and save lives.

Assistant Chief Constable (Specialist Operations) Simon Chesterman, said: "It is the responsibility of everyone across West Mercia to play their part and help keep communities safe. The threat is real and we cannot afford to be complacent, one small piece of information could prove vital for police in bringing criminals to justice. One call from a member of the public could make all the difference in stopping terror activity. If something strikes you as unusual or out of place then trust your instincts and make the call.

"Don't Rely On Others to make the call - we would rather someone phoned the Anti Terrorist Hotline than did nothing, hoping the problem will go away."

Terrorists have to live somewhere. They store their equipment and materials somewhere. They need vehicles. They have people who help them - and these people might come and go at strange times of the day and night. They may make unusual financial transactions or use false documents to hide their real identities. They may be behaving differently to how you've known them to behave in the past.

If you suspect it, report it.

• Van - Terrorists need transport. If you work in commercial vehicle hire or sales, has a sale or rental made you suspicious?
• Passport - Terrorists use multiple identities. Do you know someone with documents in different names for no obvious reason?
• Mobile phone - Terrorists need communication. Anonymous, pay-as-you-go and stolen mobiles are typical. Have you seen someone with large quantities of mobile phones? Has it made you suspicious?
• Camera - Terrorists need information. Observation and surveillance help terrorists plan attacks. Have you seen anyone taking pictures of security arrangements?
• Chemicals - Do you know someone buying large or unusual quantities of chemicals for no obvious reason?
• Mask and goggles - Terrorists use protective equipment. Handling chemicals is dangerous. Maybe you've seen goggles or masks dumped somewhere.
• Credit card - Terrorists need funding. Cheque and credit card fraud are ways terrorists generate cash. Have you seen any suspicious transactions?
• Computer - Terrorists use computers. Do you know someone who visits terrorist-related websites?
• Suitcase - Terrorists need to travel. Meetings, training and planning can take place anywhere. Do you know someone who travels but is vague about where they are going?
• Padlock - Terrorists need storage. Lock-ups, garages and sheds can all be used by terrorists to store equipment. Are you suspicious of anyone renting a commercial property?

Callers to the Anti-Terrorist Hotline number can speak in confidence to officers to discuss their concerns. However the number should not be used for emergencies. For more information visit www.westmercia.police.uk

The Anti Terrorist Hotline number is 0800 789 321, in an emergency always call 999.