Police respond as national security state raised

After an attack at Manchester Arena on Monday (22 May), the Prime Minister has announced the national security state has been raised to critical. It means a terrorist attack is considered imminent.

The move comes amid fears the Manchester attacker, Salman Abedi, did not act alone.

In response, West Midlands Police have announced how they will be reacting to the terror threat level.

Under part of an 'agreed and well−rehearsed' national plan, the military will be available to support police. It is to free up armed officers from certain guarding duties to release officers across the UK to support a wider response.

West Midlands Police said their locally tailored plan included keeping officers on duty, flexing resources and increasing presence at key sites, such as transport and other crowded places.

Police have warned of an increased number of armed officers as a precautionary measure, the highly visible patrols will continue for 'as long as is needed'.

Security measures continue to be reviewed for key events and entertainment venues.

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