Police tell people in Sheffield ‘be alert, not alarmed’ as UK terror threat level rises

The increased level comes after the terrorist attack in Vienna, where four people were killed and twenty-two wounded in shootings on the night of November 2.

Consequently, the threat level from terrorism has changed. Police stressed this is a precautionary measure and is not based on any specific evidence of an imminent terror attack in the UK.

South Yorkshire Police have echoed this, saying today: “Please be aware of the below national update from Counter Terror Police. The public should remain alert, but not alarmed.”

On the announcement, Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu, head of counter terrorism policing, said: “The threat level moving to severe means it is highly likely that a terrorist attack could happen in the UK, but is not based on a specific threat.

“However, we do urge the public to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity. Now, more than ever, we need communities to stand together and reject those who seek to sow division and hatred between us.

“We need communities and families to bring to our attention anyone they perceive may be vulnerable, a danger or escalating towards terrorism. Anyone with information is urged to contact police by calling 0800 789 321.

“Whilst we want the public to remain alert, they should not be alarmed by this change in threat level. We have a variety of established operational tactics that are tried and tested, to ensure that the UK is both well prepared and protected from the threat of terrorism.”