Counter-Terrorism Flashcards

Under the Terrorism Act 2000, what power do police officers have that door supervisors do NOT have in relation to suspected terrorists?

Answer: The power to stop and search a person suspected of being a terrorist under Section 43

Under Section 43 of the Terrorism Act 2000, a police constable may stop and search a person whom they reasonably suspect to be a terrorist. Door supervisors have no such power. A door supervisor's role is limited to observation, reporting, and managing access to their venue under their general powers. They should never attempt to detain or search someone they suspect of terrorist involvement.

What is the purpose of a 'lockdown' procedure in a venue during a terrorist attack?

Answer: To secure the venue by locking doors and windows and keeping people inside and away from danger when evacuation would increase risk

A lockdown (also called 'invacuation') is the opposite of evacuation. It involves securing the building by locking doors, closing shutters, and keeping people inside when going outside would expose them to greater danger - for example, during a firearms attack in the street outside. Venues should have lockdown procedures as well as evacuation plans.

Which of the following is an example of a Hostile Vehicle Mitigation (HVM) measure?

Answer: Reinforced bollards or planters positioned to prevent vehicle access to pedestrian areas near the venue

HVM measures are physical barriers designed to prevent vehicles being used as weapons against pedestrians. Examples include reinforced bollards, heavy planters, concrete barriers, water-filled barriers, and strategically placed street furniture. Following attacks in Nice, Berlin, and London Bridge, HVM has become a key part of crowded places protection in the UK.

A venue receives an anonymous email threatening an attack during a sold-out event next Saturday. What is the first action the venue manager should take?

Answer: Preserve the email without forwarding or deleting, and immediately contact police on 999

The email is potential evidence and must be preserved exactly as received - do not forward, reply to, or delete it. The police should be contacted immediately on 999 as this is a direct threat. Police will assess the credibility of the threat and advise on appropriate action. The decision to cancel or proceed with enhanced security will be made in consultation with police.

What does the 'See It, Say It, Sorted' campaign encourage?

Answer: Members of the public and transport staff to report anything suspicious to security or police

'See It, Say It, Sorted' is a public awareness campaign by British Transport Police (BTP) and the rail industry encouraging passengers and staff to report anything unusual or suspicious. While primarily used in transport settings, the principle applies across all public spaces: if you see something that does not look right, report it to staff or police.

In terms of the CONTEST strategy, which pillar focuses on stopping people from becoming terrorists or supporting terrorism?

Answer: Prevent

The PREVENT pillar of CONTEST focuses on stopping people from becoming terrorists or supporting terrorism. It addresses all forms of terrorism and operates through programmes like Channel, which provides support to individuals identified as vulnerable to radicalisation. Prevent is delivered through partnerships between police, local authorities, education, health, and community organisations.