The Home Office’s quarterly release of
statistics relating to the police’s use of powers
under the Terrorism Act 2000 revealed that the total number of
counter terrorism-related arrests fell to 259 in the year to
September 2019, a decrease of 20% on the previous year.
This is a continuation of the downward trend seen since the
spike in arrests recorded in 2017/18, and returns the volume of
arrests to around the average level since the current records
began in 2002.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Dean Haydon, Senior National
Coordinator, said:
“We are seeing the number of CT arrests gradually return to
levels we experienced before 2017, and more in keeping with
the average seen over the last 20 years.
“But even though the numbers of arrests are gradually
declining and we have recently seen the terrorism threat
level lowered from Severe to Substantial, we must continue to
all play our part in this fight.
“The attack that claimed the lives of two people on Friday is
a terrible reminder that we must remain vigilant, and that
terrorism remains one of the greatest threats to our safety
and security.
“With that in mind Counter Terrorism Policing recently
launched our Festive campaign,
asking the public to enjoy all the season has to offer but to
be our extra eyes and ears when out and about in busy towns
and cities.
“If anyone sees anything that causes them concerns, tell
staff, security or contact police at gov.uk/ACT. In an
emergency always call 999.”
Of the 259 arrests 88 (34%) resulted in a charge, of which 62
were charged with terrorism-related offences. Of those 62, 24
were prosecuted while another 27 are still awaiting
prosecution.
But while the last 12 months has seen a gradual reduction in
both arrests and convictions, Deputy Assistant Haydon warned
that the number of attack plots foiled by police and the
security services continues to rise. He added:
“When we consider these latest arrest statistics, we should
also remember that Counter Terrorism Policing and UK
intelligences services have foiled 25 attack plots since
March 2017.
“We are also running more than 800 live investigations across
the country, a record high. I would urge everyone to remain
vigilant and ACT if you see anything
suspicious by reporting it to us confidentially
via gov.uk/ACT or by
calling 0800 789 321. In an emergency, always
dial 999.”
The public are playing a crucial role in helping police and the
security services disrupt terrorist activity, with more than
22% of all reports from the public producing intelligence which
is helpful to police.
