Counter Terrorism: Frequently Asked Questions
Why do we need a CTU?
Counter Terrorist Units are units are regional in nature and are work closely with ACPO to ensure complementary processes to further improve the UK counter-terrorism capability and capacity
Officers and staff within the North West Counter Terrorism Unit support Forces both regionally and nationally by providing specialist counter terrorism skills and expertise. They also work closely with Neighbourhood Policing Teams across Greater Manchester.
The Counter Terrorism Units (CTU) have been created to meet the challenges of the current terrorist threat.
What is the current threat level?
How do I spot a terrorist?
The reality is this is extremely difficult. We ask people to try and identify suspicious behaviour. The important thing is to report any concerns you have to the police who will use their specialist skills to make that assessment for you. We ask that members of the community and the business world remain vigilant and report any worrying activity, any behaviour that is out of place or any action that raises concerns. You can use the confidential Anti-Terrorist Hotline to report concerns about terrorist activity on 0800 789321. Alternatively you can call our non-emergency number on 101.
How likely is it that there will be a terrorist attack in Greater Manchester?
The threat levels are for the whole whole country. This means that an attack is highly likely in any part of the country and that includes the Greater Manchester Area.
Complacency is probably our worst enemy. Greater Manchester is a vibrant area with a number of iconic sites and ‘attractive’ targets which could be equally attractive to a “would be terrorist”. It is important we all remain vigilant to keep our area safe.
How many terrorists are there in Greater Manchester?
As our intelligence changes every day, it is would be unhelpful to give an exact number of suspected terrorists currently operating within the Greater Manchester area.
National figures are collated by the Home Office and MI5.
If I believe there is a terrorist threat what should I do?
Call the police if there is an immediate threat or provide information through the Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321.
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If you suspect it, report it |
Anti Terrorist Hotline 0800 789321 |
You should take sensible practical measures to protect yourself and your family.
A public information booklet Called 'Preparing for Emergencies - what you need to know', written jointly by the Government and a wide range of experts including the emergency services, MI5, the Chief Medical Officer and the Emergency Planning Society, contains practical advice on how to prepare for a range of emergencies.
What should I do if I see an unattended package/bag?
If you find what you think is an explosive device stay well away from the package and bring it to the attention of someone with supervisory responsibility for that particular location. Call 999.
If you consider anything to be suspicious or connected with Terrorism contact Greater Manchester Police on 101 or the Anti-Terrorist Hotline 0800 789321.
What happens when you have called the hotline?
The call will be answered 24 hours a day and the officer who answers it will take information and then provide it to local officers. These specialist officers will then review the information and deal with it in the most appropriate way.
