Counter Terrorism

Counter Terrorism 

Many of the police officers at Birmingham Airport work for West Midlands Counter Terrorism Unit.  They are part of the national Counter Terrorism Policing Network whose role is to keep the UK safe from terrorism.

The officers do not wear uniform but are identifiable by the police badge worn on a lanyard. These officers are here to assist the public in the same way as their uniformed colleagues.

The team operates all over the site but you are most likely to see them at work in the departure and arrival areas, near passport control points.

Why have I been stopped?

If you are stopped it will be under what is known as ‘Schedule 7’ – an essential part of the Terrorism Act 2000.  It is used by the police to keep the public safe.

Anyone engaged in terrorism may travel abroad to plan, finance, train for or commit attacks.  Under Schedule 7, the police officers have the power to stop, question, search and, if necessary, detain people entering or leaving the UK.   

The officer does not need prior authority or suspicion to stop an individual.  They also have the power to search your belongings.

If you are stopped, the officer will explain why and provide you with a leaflet that will answer any questions you have.

It is standard procedure for the officer to ask you about your travel plans.  Most examinations only take a short while and your co-operation will help to speed up the process. 

Being stopped by the police may feel inconvenient, but their priority is to keep everyone safe and work with the public to defeat terrorism.

Tackling terrorism together

 Everyone has a role to play in combating terrorism, and West Midlands Counter Terrorism unit values your support. 

If you have reason to believe that someone is acting suspiciously please speak to a member of airport staff or an officer.  If there is immediate danger, please call 999.

Alternatively, if you have any information to share call 101 or the Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321.  You can also find advice at https://www.west-midlands.police.uk/specialist-teams/counter-terrorism.

Find out more about us 

Stay Safe abroad, Advice to Holidays: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kzcldaLbYPA

Run, Hide, Tell: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gx0d6W-QeUQ

RHT Bear Grylls: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zKZFCZqAuvE

CT Resources and advice: https://act.campaign.gov.uk/

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://goo.gl/VtvCvt

Find us on Twitter: @wmpolice and @TerrorismPolice