In more detail
The tactics are designed to identify and disrupt hostile reconnaissance – the information gathering a criminal does when planning to commit a criminal act, including terrorist attacks.
They involve both uniformed and plain clothes officers who are specially trained to spot the tell-tale signs that an individual may have criminal intent. They are supported by other resources, such as police dogs, armed officers, CCTV operators, Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) and vehicle checkpoints.
Project Servator has been successful in gathering intelligence that has assisted Counter Terrorism Units across the UK in investigating and preventing acts of terror. It has resulted in many arrests for a multitude of offences and is responsible for removing firearms, knives and drugs from the streets.
Frequently asked questions
How does it work?
We will turn up unannounced at various locations to carry out deployments. They will be unpredictable, so they could happen at any time, last for different amounts of time and involve varying numbers of officers and assets.
Should I be concerned if I see a Project Servator deployment happening?
No – our officers are there to keep you safe. You may also see or meet officers who will be happy to explain what we are doing and answer any questions which you may have. Feel free to talk to them if you want to find out more.
Working together
Businesses, security teams, and retailers have a vital role to play too. We rely on their support and vigilance to ensure our tactics in the fight against crime are successful. We also have a training initiative for security staff to help protect the public by ensuring they know how to spot suspicious activity, and how to report it.
How you can help
You can play a vital role by being vigilant when you are out and about and reporting anything that doesn’t feel right. You’ll never get in trouble for reporting a genuine concern, and we’ll always take your report seriously – whether it’s an unattended item or someone acting suspiciously. Don’t leave it to someone else to report it.
- Tell a police officer or member of security or retail staff
- Call 101 (police non-emergency number)
- Text 67101 sms/text number for the deaf / hard hearing / speech impaired | 18001 101 Minicom / Textphone
- Email 101@dc.police.uk
- In an emergency, always call 999
