Chief Superintendent Bernie O’Reilly - Keeping you informed

Following yesterday’s activities in the Stoke-on-Trent area which formed part of a national, pre-planned counter terrorism operation, I took the opportunity yesterday to meet with community representatives to listen to their concerns and answer as many questions as I was able to do.

We are all aware that this and other totally separate incidents in the city over the last twelve months have tested our local harmony. We’re determined that these will not divide our proud communities.

We do understand how some of our residents may be feeling vulnerable at this time for a variety of reasons, and want to reassure you that we only take action against individuals about whom there is reasonable suspicion that they may be engaged in criminal acts. We target individuals – not communities.

Local officers work hard on a daily basis to maintain the strong community relations we have here in Stoke-on-Trent and we do not take those relations for granted. Indeed we’re determined to continue to develop the trust we’ve built as we work to keep our communities safe and reassured.

All communities will understand that the vast majority of the public, regardless of race or religion, want to feel safe and be safe.

Can I therefore thank all local people for their patience and understanding and urge residents to engage with their local community police officers who are in their areas to offer support, reassurance and keep you updated.
On a separate note, I’d like to take the opportunity to update you on other activities not related to the counter terrorism operation that took place yesterday in our city.

Police, fire and city council staff joined Shelton residents to offer help and support during the extremely cold weather. They visited the homes of local people, providing warm meals and a friendly voice, and also addressing any local issues or concerns.

Meanwhile, teams of volunteers worked within the Mosque building, clearing debris from the recent fire which filled three skips. They worked together to clean the building and help the community recover from the
appalling incident a few weeks ago. After work finished, everyone joined together to celebrate their efforts with a meal which was enjoyed by all. Many thanks are extended to the Mosque Committee for their kind generosity and hospitality.

Chief Superintendent
Bernie O’Reilly

Searching Property
In order to search a property, we apply to Magistrates for a warrant. This allows officers to enter a private
address for the purposes of searching the building or grounds for items connected with ongoing investigations. Police may arrest individuals found at these properties if they form part of their enquiries.
If there are other occupants at the property unconnected with these enquiries, they’re given assistance from a specially appointed liaison officer to find another suitable location to go to whilst searches continue. Once the searches are completed, they are able to return to the address.

Naming Suspects
Community Representatives were keen to find out more yesterday about how details of suspects came to be broadcast in the media. I would like to reinforce the fact that we do not confirm the identity of anyone arrested in connection with ongoing enquiries. Neither do we confirm the name or religious / ethnic background of anyone
arrested. Publication or broadcast is entirely a matter for the media organisations who, as many local people will know, approach local residents direct to obtain their information. We will only give a name once a person has been charged with an offence.

Contact your local officers:
You can contact your local officers about any issues or concerns you may have. Telephone 0300 123 4455 for all non-emergency calls to Staffordshire Police. In an emergency dial 999.
http://www.staffordshire.police.uk