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Armed police in terrorism crackdown

Barbara Canning
30/12/2002

ARMED police have targeted Tameside in the on-going fight against terrorism.

Local folk were stopped in a roadblock by officers wielding guns in an antidote to the festive spirit.

The anti-terrorism initiative targeted drivers at the Snipe Retail Park in Ashton.

Assistant Chief Constable Steve Thomas said that as part of the scheme - codenamed Operation Vigilant - officers checked cars, picked out at random, and key locations as well as carrying out high visibility foot patrols.

He said although Manchester was not under any specific threat from terrorist attacks, the force is only too aware that Manchester has been targeted in the past.

"I'm aware that people are currently apprehensive about terrorism and the potential threat to the UK. While there is no specific threat to Greater Manchester it would be foolish to be complacent," he said.

He added: "Last year we concentrated a similar operation on Manchester city centre but this year we'll have extra measures in place right across the force area.

"This is not because the threat of terrorism is higher but due to the success of last year's operation and the positive way in which it was received by the general public."

Asst Chief Const Thomas added that people should phone the police if they spot anyone or anything suspicious.