Leicestershire’s Chief calls for public vigilance

The Chief Constable of Leicestershire Police, Simon Cole, has urged the public to be vigilant following last night’s (Monday 22 May) suspected terrorist attack at the MEN Arena in Manchester.

At least 22 died and more than 50 others were injured – including children – when an explosion shook the foyer area of the Arena shortly after10.30pm just minutes after the end of an Ariana Grande concert.

The cause of the explosion is being investigated, but it is being treated by the authorities as a terrorist attack.

Simon Cole said: “Our thoughts are with the families of those who died and were injured in last night’s appalling and shocking incident.

“We are also thinking of our colleagues in Greater Manchester Police who, together with the other emergency services, ran towards danger to help the public.

“It is important that we are all alert and aware of our surroundings – together we can fight terrorism and make our communities safer.

“We want to hear from anyone who sees anything suspicious, be it a vehicle, package or person. Rely on your instinct about whether something is suspicious – we would always prefer you to call us if you are in any doubt.

“You can also call the confidential Anti-Terrorist Hotline – 0800 789 321. It is staffed around the clock by specialist counter-terrorism police officers and staff.“

A textphone service is also available for people with speech or hearing difficulties on 0800 032 45 39 (text messages from mobiles are not accepted).

Any information passed to the Anti-Terrorist Hotline is treated in the strictest of confidence and is thoroughly analysed and researched before, and if, any police action is taken.

Kind regards

Pc 2113 Pete Icke