A new anti-terror initiative has been launched in Aberdeen today to show the public what to do in the event of an attack.
Local officers will also provide reassurance to the city’s shoppers, workers and visitors and will be available to answer questions at a number of busy locations.
The scheme, part of a “targeted week of action” across Scotland, is to be used to promote ongoing counter-terrorism activity across the country in the wake of attacks in Manchester and London.
Police are pushing a message of “Be alert, not alarmed” – encouraging people to continue with daily life as normal.
Police Scotland’s lead counter terrorism officer, Assistant Chief Constable Steve Johnson, said: “The purpose of this week-long initiative is not to alarm the public, but to provide them with all the necessary information they require to identify suspicious activity and more importantly, to keep themselves safe and secure.
“The tragic events in Manchester and London have undoubtedly left our communities shaken and concerned and our activities taking place throughout Counter Terrorism Awareness Week are aimed at offering reassurance to the public by demonstrating the range of capabilities at our disposal to both deter, and respond to, terrorism-related incidents.
“As was the case during our Counter Terrorism Day of Action in November 2016, there is no specific intelligence suggesting an attack in Scotland, however keeping our communities informed is essential to ensure they can assist counter terrorism.”
He added: “We are demonstrating that Scotland is a hostile environment for those intent on causing harm and by continuing to work together we can ensure this remains the case.”
The UK threat level has been lowered to “severe” – after being raised to the highest stage following the attack in Manchester last month – but police believe another incident could still be highly likely.
Cabinet Secretary for Justice, Mr Michael Matheson said: “Understandably, given the horrific events in London on June 3, the third attack in the UK in the last three months, many people in Scotland have concerns about the threats posed by terrorism.
“We must not allow terrorism to triumph, people should not be afraid to go about their daily business as usual.
“Police Scotland rightfully reviewed security arrangements of major events following the recent incidents but security is a responsibility we all share and we need to continue to work together, and benefit from our strong community links, in keeping each other safe.”
