Previous terrorist attacks in the UK, namely the July 2007 bombings in London, have taught us that those people wishing to carry out such atrocities in our country place great importance on reconnaissance.

This means that they will undertake rehearsal trips as a practice exercise to areas they plan to attack in an attempt to ensure their plans can be carried out to the letter.

This behaviour may well look suspicious and you may be able to help up prevent incidents by being vigilant and contacting us if you notice anything out of the ordinary.

Primary Role of Reconnaissance

• Obtain a profile of the target location
• Determine the best method of attack
• Determine the optimum time to conduct the attack.

Reconnaissance operatives may visit potential targets a number of times prior to the attack. Where pro-active security measures are in place, particular attention is paid to any variations in security patterns and the flow of people in and out.

The ability to recognise those engaged in hostile reconnaissance could disrupt an attack and produce important intelligence leads.

What to look for:

• Activity inconsistent with the nature of the building or location.
  Detailed video/photographs of location, fire exits, service areas, fire evacuation points.
  Note making/drawing diagrams.
  Attempting to gain access/testing security.
• Normal activity that is repeated abnormally often.
  Repeated passes of a location by the same person or vehicle.
  A vehicle seen parked up in a location with occupants inside appearing to not actually be doing anything.

Not all suspicious activity is going to be terrorism; your vigilance will assist us in reducing crime and continuing to make Norfolk a safe county for all. If you get that feeling something is not right the likelihood is that it is not right.

You don't have to be certain to be suspicious!

For reporting suspicious activity to police in the first instance that does not require an immediate response, contact us on 0845 456 4567 or contact the confidential anti-terrorist hotline on 0800 789 321.

For any incident which requires an immediate response dial 999.

If you would like your business to have an input on Hostile Reconnaissance contact Counter Terrorism Security Advisors (CTSA) on 101 or email ctsa@norfolk.pnn.police.uk