Police Urge Public to Remain Vigilant Over Bank Holiday Weekend

Published on: 26 May, 2017
Updated on: 27 May, 2017

With the bank holiday weekend approaching, Surrey and Sussex police forces are continuing to review their approaches to keeping communities safe over the period.

In a statement issued this afternoon (May 26, 2017) they say: “People will be flocking to events and other attractions throughout Surrey and Sussex.

“Whilst you may see more officers, some of whom are armed, carrying out high visibility patrols do not be alarmed. We continue to operate in a state of heightened alert following the national threat level being raised to critical.”

Assistant Chief Constable Steve Barry, head of operations command, said: “Senior officers are meeting daily to discuss any potential emerging issues and concerns and these meetings will continue for the foreseeable future.

“The current threat level applies to the whole of the UK and not any specific area.

“There are a number of public events taking place in Surrey and Sussex this weekend and the coming days and we are liaising with event organisers to ensure that venues have appropriate security measures in place. We are doing all we can to keep people safe, liaising closely with partners and continuing our increased policing presence across both counties.

“At this stage there are no requirements to deploy armed troops across Surrey or Sussex to deploy under police command to free up our armed resources. However this remains an option for us if needed and will be continued to be reviewed.

“Our priority is to increase patrols to protect the public at this time, as we continue to provide our day-to-day policing across the two counties.

“It is important for the public to work with us and remain vigilant as we tackle the terrorist threat facing the UK.

“We appreciate the calls from the public which have allowed us to resolve concerns quickly.”

A police spokesperson said: “If you see anything suspicious – anything out of place or unusual – trust your gut instinct and call the Anti Terrorist Hotline 0800 789321 or 999 in an emergency.”

For further information about reporting suspicious behaviour visit https://act.campaign.gov.uk/