Terrorism & extreme political activity

If you see what you believe to be a suspicious package, notify someone in authority immediately, a security guard, police officer. They will then be able to take the appropriate action. If you cannot find anyone to report this to then you should dial 999 and provide details of the location. 

Do not touch or move the package yourself. Although it is likely to be a harmless package, you should not interfere with it in any way for your own and others safety.

• Gels,
• Pastes,
• Lotions,
• Toothpaste,
• Hair gel,
• Soups,
• Syrups,
• Any other liquid/solid mixtures,
• The contents of pressurised containers, for example:
• Drinks,
• Perfume,
• Deodorant,
• Shaving foam,
• Other aerosols.

• Prescription medicines in liquid form sufficient and essential for the flight (e.g. diabetic kit), as long as verified as authentic.
• Baby milk and liquid baby food (the contents of each bottle or jar must be tasted by the accompanying passenger).

It is not illegal to take photographs or video footage in public places unless it is for criminal or terrorist purposes.

There will be places where you have access as a member of the public, but will have to ask permission or may be prevented altogether. These could include stately homes, museums, churches, shopping malls, railway stations and council / government buildings. You need to check the situation out on a case by case basis.

The taking of photographs of an individual without their consent is a civil matter. Taking a photo of a person where they can expect privacy (inside their home or garden) is likely to be a breach of privacy laws. The other issue to consider is what you plan to do with the photograph afterwards. If the picture is of an individual, perhaps as a portrait or character study, and you intend to publish it in any way (on the internet, in a book or at a gallery), it would be appropriate and may avoid unnecessary complications if you ask that person for permission, many media organisations are international and will not accept an identifiable photograph of a person without a signed release. If the photo could be seen as defamatory in some way then you would leave yourself open to civil proceedings.

The country is in a heightened state of alert (and will be for many years) because of potential terrorist attacks. So called 'soft targets' are particularly vulnerable. Security staff, the general public and police are much more aware of anyone taking photographs and you may be approached by someone, such as the police, when you are taking photographs near or in potential targets. Generally the police cannot seize the camera or memory card unless you are committing an offence or suspected of terrorist activity.

Finally, it is a specific offence to elicit information (which would include photographs) about members of armed forces, police officers or the intelligence services, which is likely to be useful to a person committing or preparing an act of terrorism, or publishes or communicates information of that kind. The law does not state that the person who gets the information has to use the information for terrorism purposes, just that the information is likely to be useful to a terrorist. There is a defence of 'reasonable excuse' for this offence, but it would be for the suspect / defendant to raise this matter.

Photographers need to be aware of this provision and be cautious when taking such photographs. The sort of occasion when it could cause a problem may be, for example, at an anti-war protest, when there may be a number of counter terrorism and intelligence operatives working in the area. If an officer makes an arrest for this offence it could cause a lot of unnecessary time wasted for both the officer and yourself, although that may only be until the facts are clarified.

Radicalisation is the process whereby an individual adopts extreme religious, social or political ideals. It can take place in many forms but is particularly prevalent on social media. Terrorist groups such as Islamic State are targeting vulnerable young people, who may be interested in what such groups have to offer

An individual vulnerable to radicalisation would show a change in their behaviour and those close to the person (e.g. teachers or family members) may notice, this could include spending vast amounts of time on the internet, bullying, race crime or anti-social behaviour. In extreme cases, it can lead to the individual committing an act of terrorism.

Many strategies are being put in place to tackle this problem, including the PREVENT programme (see Q941 for more details.) If you are concerned that someone you know is at risk of radicalisation, we would advise that you contact your local policing team via 101. Additionally, you can report suspicious online activity to GOV.UK - report online material promoting terrorism or extremism.

PREVENT is part of the Government's counter terrorism strategy which aims to stop people becoming or supporting terrorists and terrorists activities. It works with a wide range of sectors (educational, faith, criminal justice, charities etc.) offering appropriate support and advice where there are risks of radicalisation.

The strategy prioritises the work load according to the risk that is currently being faced - which at the moment is radicalisation and extremism.

If you wish to share a concern you can call the national police Prevent advice line in confidence on 0800 011 3764 9am to 5pm every day and speak with a specially trained officer. 

Please see the links in Related Information for further details.