Counter Terrorism

Terrorism is a real and serious threat and to counter it we need to work together. One of the ways we intend to do that is by tackling extremism.

What is Extremism?
Extremism is opposition to fundamental British values including the mutual respect and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs and calls for the death of members of our armed forces, whether in this country or overseas.

Areas of interest to us:

• Individuals linked to extremist networks
• Northern Ireland related terrorism
• Radicalisation in all its forms
• Extremist travel
• Extremist funding and finance
• Protecting vulnerable communities

What you can do?
We all have a role to play in keeping Lancashire safe. You can help us by staying vigilant and reporting suspicious activity, to the police. Have you noticed any activity where you live which is unusual or suspicious?

 Look out for:

• Behaviour – Has anybody struck you as unusual or whose behaviour has changed suddenly? Could it be significant? Have the people they associate with changed?
• Transport - Terrorists need transport. If you work in commercial vehicle hire or sales, has a sale or rental made you suspicious?
• Communication - 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?
• Surveillance - 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?
• Equipment - Terrorists use protective equipment. Handling chemicals is dangerous. Maybe you've seen goggles or masks dumped somewhere.
• Funding - Terrorists need funding. Cheque and credit card fraud are ways terrorists generate cash. Have you seen any suspicious transactions?
• Computers - Terrorists use computers. Do you know someone who visits terrorist-related websites
• Travel - 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?
• Storage - 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?

How to report it
If you suspect it, please report it to the Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321. 

Alternatively you can speak to your local police officer or one of our Community Engagement Officers (CEOs) who can be contacted using the following details:

Blackburn, Hyndburn & Ribble Valley
Telephone: 01254 353638
Email: EASTERN.CEO@lancashire.pnn.police.uk

Burnley, Pendle & Rossendale
Telephone: 01282 472190
Email: PENNINE.CEO@lancashire.pnn.police.uk

Preston
Telephone: 01772 209830/209733
Email: CENTRAL.CEO@lancashire.pnn.police.uk

If you are based elsewhere in Lancashire please contact any of the above. You can also contact:

The constabulary ‘Prevent Team’ 01772 413366/9
The police non emergency number 101
Crimestoppers anonymously 0800 555 111

What happens to the information I provide?

All information received is thoroughly researched and investigated before any action by the police is considered. All information passed onto us is treated in the strictest confidence. It is not compulsory to leave your contact details.

Prevent
In order to combat terrorism we need to work hard to prevent people becoming involved in extremist activity. We do this by engaging with young people and encouraging discussion and debate about counter terrorism. We also work closely with key organisations to make sure that we understand the views of the communities in Lancashire.

One way in which we engage with young people is through ‘ACT now’, a nationally acclaimed interactive workshop which gives young people an insight into the kinds of decisions a police officer has to make in the event of a terrorism incident and how agencies and the community can work together to defeat terrorism.

If you would like to take part please contact us using the above contact details.

For information on Lancashire Constabulary's Counter Terrorism Security Advisors click here