Counter Terror Business 59

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RIOTS

Prosecutor says terrorism charges will be considered amid UK riots

Prosecutors have likened the recent far-right riots in the UK to terrorism, the BBC has reported.

Stephen Parkinson, the director of public prosecutions, said his teams will consider seeking the extradition of influencers allegedly playing a role in the riots across the UK. He told the BBC that anybody involved in the violence should know they would face the most severe possible criminal charges, including terrorism.

Concerns have been raised over the social media activity of the founder of the technically defunct English Defence League (EDL) Tommy Robinson. He is currently in Cyprus. The High Court has issued a warrant for his arrest after he failed to turn up in court last Monday.

Parkinson said: “We are willing to look at terrorism offences. I’m aware of at least one instance where that is happening.

“Where you have organised groups planning activity for the purposes of advancing [an] ideology ... planning really, really serious disruption then yes, we will consider terrorism offences.”

Head of Counter Terrorism Policing Assistant Commissioner Matt Jukes said: “Counter Terrorism Policing is supporting forces across the UK in their response to the disgraceful disorder we have seen on our streets...

King Charles has set out the new government’s plans in a speech to Parliament.

39 bills were outlined in the speech which the government plans to pass in the next parliamentary session.

Martyn’s Law has been listed as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill and it will require venues to put measures in place to deal with the threat of terrorism.

Police will be able to use counter-terror powers to handle gangs smuggling people to the UK, through the Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill.

The Cyber Security and Resilience Bill is aimed at protecting critical infrastructure from attackers.

A bill is included to set up an Armed Forces Commissioner, which would have powers to inspect faulty kit and military accommodation.

Martyn’s Law listed in King’s Speech

MARTYN’S LAW

Police warn of epidemic of violence against women and girls

Police are warning of an epidemic scale of offending in violence against women and girls (VAWG).

A national policing statement, which brings together comprehensive data and analysis has revealed 3,000 offences are recorded every day.

Police recorded VAWG related crime increased by 37 per cent between 2018 and 23. Over one million VAWG related crimes were recorded during 2022/23, accounting for 20 per cent of all police recorded crime.

One in every six murders related to domestic abuse in 22/23, with suspected victim suicides following domestic abuse rising year-on-year.

Police leaders are now calling for a wholesystem approach that brings together criminal justice partners, government bodies and industry, in a new partnership that seeks to reduce the scale and impact of VAWG.

It is believed around 1 in 20 people are believed to be perpetrators of VAWG each year and evidence shows many of these perpetrators will have touch points with a number of agencies outside of policing through their life, presenting opportunities for intervention.

Policing has now ensured that VAWG is officially classed as a national threat and a refreshed national framework has brought the police response to VAWG in line with counterterrorism and serious and organised crime...

TERRORISM

Anjem Choudary jailed for life

Anjem Choudary has been given a life sentence for directing a terror group.

Choudary was previously found guilty of directing a terrorist organisation, membership of a proscribed organisation and encouraging support for a terrorist organisation. He has now been sentenced to life imprisonment and ordered to serve a minimum of 28 years (less time already served on remand). He will also be subject to notification requirements for 30 years.

Khaleed Hussein was sentenced to five years’ imprisonment with an additional year on licence and will be subject to notification requirements for 15 years for membership of a proscribed organisation.

The joint Met Police and MI5 investigation into Choudary was assisted by the New York Police Department (NYPD) and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). After sentencing, the Judge commended officers in the UK, US and Canada for their work on this investigation.

Commander Dominic Murphy, Head of the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command, said:

“These convictions come as a result of some truly remarkable work - not only here in the UK by Counter Terrorism police and our colleagues in MI5, but also from the incredibly brave work of undercover officers both in the US and Canada...

Fine of £6 million could be imposed following ransomware attack

The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) could impose a £6 million fine following a ransomware attack that disrupted NHS and social care services in August 2022.

ICO said the provider, Advanced Computer Software Group Ltd, failed to implement the necessary measures to protect the personal information of over 82,900 people.

Advanced provides IT and software services to organisations on a national scale, including the NHS and other healthcare providers, and handles people’s personal information on behalf of these organisations as their data processor.

The provisional decision to issue a fine relates to a ransomware incident in August 2022, where the ICO has provisionally found that hackers initially accessed a number of Advanced’s health and care systems via a customer account that did not have multifactor authentication.

The data exfiltrated included phone numbers and medical records, as well as details of how to gain entry to the homes of 890 people who were receiving care at home. People impacted have been notified, and Advanced found no evidence that any data was published on the dark web...

Mosques offered emergency security amid far-right attacks: READ MORE

Swinney urges social media platforms to combat misinformation: READ MORE

Scottish Government announces plans to tackle gendered violence: READ MORE

Biometrics and surveillance camera commissioner resigns: READ MORE

Taylor Swift concerts in Vienna cancelled over security concerns: READ MORE

Plea agreements reached for 9/11 accused: READ MORE

EXTREMISM

Children to be taught to spot extremism and misinformation online

The education secretary has announced planned changes to the school curriculum which would see children being taught how to spot extremist content and misinformation online.

Bridget Phillipson said the review of the curriculum in primary and secondary schools was intended to embed critical thinking and protect children against conspiracy theories.

The announcement comes after misinformation about the perpetrator of the Southport attack led to riots across the country.

Speaking to the Sunday Telegraph, Phillipson said: ““It’s more important than ever that we give young people the knowledge and skills to be able to challenge what they see online.

“That’s why our curriculum review will develop plans to embed critical skills in lessons to arm our children against the disinformation, fake news and putrid conspiracy theories awash on social media. Our renewed curriculum will always put high and rising standards in core subjects – that’s non-negotiable.

“But alongside this we will create a broad, knowledge-rich curriculum that widens access to cultural subjects and gives pupils the knowledge and skills they need to thrive at work and throughout life.”

RIOTS: CAUSES AND CONSEQUENCES

CTB takes a look at what caused the riots, what action was taken to combat them and what is being done to prevent similar events happening again

In the last few weeks, the UK has seen a significant amount of violence. Police officers and members of the public have been left injured and properties damaged by rioters with reports of missiles being thrown, homes being defaced, and shops looted. Mosques and migrant hotels have been violently attacked. A man threatened a couple with a hedgetrimmer, nurses were pelted with rocks on their way to work and bus driver was spat at.

A sense of unrest and fear is being felt by many across the UK. Countries including Malaysia, Australia and Nigeria have warned their citizens about travelling to the area and avoiding protest areas.

WHAT

CAUSED THE RIOTS?

On 29 July in Southport in northwest England, a teenager carried out an attack at a children’s

Taylor Swift themed dance classes. He wounded 10 people, with the majority of the victims being children. Three children were killed – Bebe King, Elsie Dot Stancombe and Alice Dasilva Aguiar. Waves of flowers were laid at the scene, a vigil was held, and funding was raised to support those affected by the event. Taylor Swift fans set up a fundraiser for Alder Hey Children’s Hospital.

However, a flood of misinformation circulated after the event. While the suspected attacker had been arrested, their name could not be released because he was under 18.

Rumours and misinformation spread on social media that the attacker was a Muslim who had arrived in the UK on a boat, forcing police to clarify that this was not the case. On the day of the attack, police stated that the suspect had been born in the UK. It has been reiterated

several times that the suspect has no known links to Islam.

While a vigil was held on 30 July, a group of people attacked a mosque in Southport. They threw bricks at the building, as well as setting a police van on fire.

The judge chose to suspend the attacker’s anonymity in the hope to dispel harmful speculation. Despite this, violence continued.

WHERE WERE THE RIOTS?

After the riot in Southport occurred, violence started to spread across the UK including Liverpool, Manchester, London and Rotherham. It was reported that many of those taking part in violence in Southport and elsewhere were not from the local area.

Demonstrators in London were seen launching beer cans and glass bottles at a line of police in riot gear in front of Downing Street and throwing flares towards the statue of Winston Churchill in Parliament Square.

The Met Police said : “Everyone has a right to peacefully protest, but the Met will not tolerate individuals who use the guise of protest as a means to inflict violence or incite racial and religious hatred on members of the public or officers.”

Tensions rose in Belfast at Belfast City Hall where fireworks and eggs were fired towards the peaceful demonstrators at city hall. The mob then attacked local businesses, hotels, and supermarkets. Over the last few months, there have been reports of immigrants in Northern Ireland being threatened and made

The judge chose to suspend the attacker’s anonymity in the hope to dispel harmful speculation

to feel unwelcome, as well as properties being vandalised.

In Manchester, groups held riots at a hotel where asylum seekers were reportedly living. There were also reports of a group of people being trapped in a house by attackers, who had to be carried to safety by police.

Joe Mulhall, director of research at charity HOPE not hate said that people besieged, attacked and tried to burn down a hotel housing asylum seekers.

He said: “There are many who have sought to frame this week of far-right riots as outpourings of legitimate anger. They are not. This is racist violence spurred on by far-right hatred. Those directly involved in these horrifying scenes need to face the full force of the law.

“Responsibility also lies with those who have promoted and defended these riots such as Tommy Robinson.

“This explosion of racist violence across the country is the result of years of far-right agitation.”

RMT Union also reported that razor blades have been found under National Front stickers at some railway stations.

In Rotherham, local police said 10 officers were injured during confrontations with a crowd of 700 people, some of whom threw planks of wood and sprayed officers with fire extinguishers before smashing hotel windows.

“The mindless actions of those today have achieved nothing other than sheer destruction and leaving members of the public and the wider community in fear,” said Lindsey Butterfield, assistant chief constable at South Yorkshire Police.

WHAT ACTION DID THE GOVERNMENT AND POLICE TAKE?

After the Southport stabbings, prime minister Keir Starmer condemned the “farright thuggery” across the country and said perpetrators would face the full force of the law.

A National Violent Disorder Programme has been announced to bring together the best policing capabilities from across the country to share intelligence on the activity of violent E

A National Violent Disorder Programme has been announced to bring together the best policing capabilities from across the country

F groups so the authorities can swiftly intervene to arrest them.

Local insight and data will be used to gain a national understanding of where criminals are operating. This includes the British Transport Police alerting where they see a spike in train ticket sales that could be linked to organised violent disorder.

Adam Hadley, executive director of Tech Against Terrorism, said: “While I commend the government on establishing a National Violence Disorder Unit, I urge our leaders to go one step further.

“Just as disinformation and online harms are interconnected, so must be our response. We need a centralised team that can identify the kind of content we have seen generated this week, within minutes. They would then work across government and the tech sector to coordinate a multi-sector response.”

They added: “A national centre of excellence that will conduct and openly share the results

of their open-source intelligence investigations would enable society to hold platforms and the creators of online content to account, contributing to the resilience of our online and offline communities.”

Many areas announced an increased police presence in an effort to limit the damage done by these groups.

Ben-Julian Harrington, the National Police Chiefs’ Council’s lead for public order said: “Disinformation is a huge driver of this appalling violence and we know a lot of those attending these so-called protests are doing so in direct response to what they’ve read online.”

He added that posts are often being shared and amplified by high profile accounts.

“We know we’re not alone and we are drawing together our communities and our partners to help us do even more to silence those intent on spreading false news. They won’t win.”

WIDER RESPONSE

While the riots have caused significant harm to people across the UK and Northern Ireland, many members of the community have come together in solidarity against the violence.

The BBC reported that after the first riots in Southport, hundreds of local residents helped to clean up the damage.

About a week after the riots began, a list of targets was posted online, including immigration

support services and even people’s home addresses. In response, thousands of counter protesters turned up to protect the targets and protest the violence and racism. Very few antiimmigration protesters turned up and the counter protests overall resulted in very few arrests.

ARRESTS AND CHARGES

Since the violence began, hundreds of people have been arrested and charged. Some have already been jailed. Prosecutors and police have said that terrorism charges will be considered. Many are arguing in favour of this, since the riots saw organised, premeditated violence and calls for it, against minority groups with a political goal – which some argue fits the definition of terrorism. Indeed, the 2022 Dover migrant centre attack, where a man threw incendiary devices at the site was considered terrorism. With this as precedent, setting fire to a hotel known to have migrants inside or calling for this, could also meet the threshold for a terrorist incident.

It is important to note that there have been arrests on the counter protestors’ side as well, though nowhere near as many.

WHAT ABOUT THE FUTURE?

Though the violence has since subsided, many problems still remain. Hundreds of people are being sent to prison, while we know we are in the middle of a prison capacity crisis.

The ideology that supported the violence still exists, with many many people harbouring hate towards immigrants and Muslims. The threat of violence still exists and many people feel incredibly unsafe.

Despite warnings and arrests after misinformation about the Southport attack was spread online, the same thing happened after another attack in Leicester Square. Almost immediately after the attack, there were posts online with false claims about the attacker.

People are criticising what they see as a crackdown on free speech. It has been noted that arresting people for spreading false information or hate is to some extent making martyrs of them, and causing those on the far right to feel and spread more hatred for the government and police, whilst painting themselves as victims. This could have the effect of pushing more and more people further and further to the extreme.

While of course we don’t know everyone’s reasons for taking part in the violence, it is clear there is more to it than just fear or hatred of immigrants and Muslims.

Despite warnings and arrests after misinformation about the Southport attack was spread online, the same thing happened after another attack in Leicester Square

Without generalising, it important to consider other factors that have been highlighted as contributing to the violence: the cost-ofliving crisis, unemployment, a lack of trust and respect for the police and government, a general increase in violence anyway, a feeling of not being represented by government, the weather…

It is also important to note that not everyone involved in the violence may be a member of the far-right – it has been highlighted that some may be there as opportunists, or just to take part in any kind of violence. Calling all participants ‘far-right’ and ‘racist’ has served to further disaffect them.

The government, police, social media, education and wider society still have a lot of work to do to combat these problems and they will not be solved any time soon. M

UNPRECENTED GROWTH: THE SECURITY EVENT 2024 DRAWS THOUSANDS TO NEC BIRMINGHAM

Birmingham, UK – The Security Event 2024, held from 30 April to 2 May at the NEC Birmingham, concluded with record-breaking numbers building upon its position as the UK’s ‘biggest, best and favourite’ security show that is now universally recognised as Europe’s leading event for the commercial, enterprise, and domestic security market

This year, the event attracted an unprecedented 14,327 visitors, reflecting a 28 per cent year-on-year growth, and featured 336 world-leading security manufacturers, suppliers and service providers showcasing the latest technologies, product

launches, and innovative solutions. Spanning an impressive area of 15,000 square meters, the event provided a unique platform for attendees to experience exclusive product releases, live demonstrations, and workshops. The show also facilitated invaluable networking

opportunities with prominent industry figures and specialists, enhancing the professional development of all participants.

Tristan Norman, Event Director, commented: “The Security Event has grown remarkably, becoming the industry’s favourite go-to event. It’s fantastic to see the show thrive and be back at our home at the NEC Birmingham. We thank the exhibitors, visitors and partners for their support.”

The Security Event 2024 saw a significant increase in international visitors, with representatives from 64 countries. This global engagement underscores the event’s expanding influence and its pivotal role in the global security sector.

Key highlights of the event included the debut of The LPCB Live Testing Lab, which attracted a standing-room-only audience. Attendees witnessed firsthand demonstrations of the effectiveness of various physical security products, including padlocks, key safes, fencing, shutters, turnstiles, and more. The inaugural Safety and Security Entrepreneurs Awards (SSEAs) celebrated the achievements of entrepreneurs in both start-ups and established businesses within the security and safety sectors. Supported by the British Security Industry Association, The Banks Foundation, and Skills for Security, the SSEAs highlighted innovative contributions to the industry.

The debut of WorldSkills UK at the show featured an immersive and interactive zone dedicated to nurturing future security engineers. It hosted its National Qualifiers onsite, with three heats over three days, raising the bar for apprentice excellence

in the field. Additionally, the return of The Forum, in partnership with the Access Control Executive Brief Pavilion, emphasised the critical importance of access control in enhancing physical security for organisations.

Furthermore, the launch of Safety and Security Asia, a new addition to the series set to take place on 11-13 November 2025 at the Marina Bay Sands Convention Centre, Singapore promises to extend the event’s reach and impact globally.

The industry’s robust support for the event was evident, with backing from key organisations such as the ASC, ASIS, BSIA, ECA, FSA, IPSA, MLA, NAHS, NSI, Skills for Security, SSAIB, The Security Institute, Secured by Design and many more. Looking ahead, The Security Event will return from 8-10 April, 2025, in Hall 5 at the NEC Birmingham, the largest hall at the venue, increasing its footprint by 30% to accommodate the continuous growing demand from exhibitors and visitors. M

RETHINKING PHYSICAL SECURITY FOR TODAY’S NEEDS

There is no single security measure or product that will prevent terrorism, crime or vandalism, but having a thorough approach with a layered solution of products can help to deter the worst

Physical security products as well as electronic and surveillance systems combined, means the aggressor needs a longer time to attack which gives a much better chance of them walking away.

ROLLER SHUTTERS

It has long been recognised that roller shutters with an approved independent certification will help to prevent theft of valuables and keep buildings of all types secure. However, as the focus moves towards terrorism and threatening behaviour against innocent people becomes more widespread, the justification of using physical security solutions, such as roller shutters has strengthened, in order to protect employees and visiting clients.

More instances of shutters being used to not just to secure valuables, but to secure premises to reduce the chances of items that could be used as weapons being stolen, is also being considered as important. The obvious example of this is for retail or commercial premises, where the very nature of the building’s purpose dictates what is inside. Shops, laboratories and healthcare hubs where potentially harmful weapons or chemicals are stored are a growing area for malicious activity.

Charter Global have been at the forefront of innovation in the design, manufacture and installation of high security roller shutters for 20 years and were the first to market with their high security LPS 1175 Issue 7 SR5 rated shutter, Obexion. Independently certified by the Loss Prevention Certification Board, LPCB, this was subsequently updated to E10 certification in the more recent LPS 1175 issue 8 standard, with the Obexion MD XR also attaining certification from the NPSA National Protective Security Authority (NPSA) and the National Counter Terrorism Security Office (NaCTSO). Obexion shutters can be activated with speed to keep employees safe inside a building if there is a terror threat, and it is the first security roller shutter to gain certification without needing auxiliary locks, thanks to the development of unique LockDown Technology by Charter Global to ensure it can be locked in any position and not forced upwards once deployed.

When investing in or replacing a piece of security equipment, opting for a product which has been independently certified and meets a recognised security standard is highly recommended. The full range of Charter Global security shutters can be seen below. M

NEW HOPE FOR MARTYN’S LAW?

Back in May, dozens of campaigners completed the last leg of the Manchester to London walk for Martyn’s Law. Upon completion, Figen Murray met with then Prime Minister Rishi Sunak who committed to Martyn’s Law. Later that day, he called the general election

Figen Murray, the mother of Martyn Hett, who was killed at the attack, and after whom the law is named, and others began the walk at Manchester Arena on 7 May.

Two weeks later, scores of people joined the campaigners for the final leg from Marble Arch to Downing Street in the rain.

Upon arrival at Downing Street, Murray and her family met with then Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. At the time, Sunak promised her he would introduce the law to parliament before

the summer recess. Within hours, Sunak had called the general election, leading many to question his sincerity and integrity.

Speaking to the BBC , Murray said: “I was exhausted after walking 200 miles from Manchester to London, I was upset by the anniversary and then I felt misled by the Prime Minister.

“Martyn’s Law was a commitment for the last Parliament, not the next one, and I feel let down by all the promises that were made and broken. E

Starmer wrote to Murray promising to introduce Martyn’s Law at the earliest possible opportunity

F “National security is too important to be so low a priority. I hope whoever wins the next election will act immediately to make this right.”

LABOUR

On the same day as the meeting with Sunak, Murray also met with then leader of the opposition, now prime minister Sir Keir Starmer, who also outlined a commitment to the legislation.

Prior to the general election, Starmer wrote to Murray promising to introduce Martyn’s Law at the earliest possible opportunity.

In the letter, he said: “Having met with you and many of the other survivors of terror attacks, I know how personal and deeply felt this campaign is.

“The bravery and dedication you have shown in campaigning for changes to the law, so that others do not have to go through what you have, is incredible.

“Labour have been consistent in supporting the government in bringing forward Martyn’s Law. So it is shameful that, five years on from the legislation first being proposed, it has still not been brought forward.

He continued: “I promised you when we met that I would make good on my commitment that a Labour Government will introduce Martyn’s Law at the earliest possible opportunity. I meant that and I will honour that promise.

Martyn’s Law was mentioned in the King’s Speech as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill

“This is a manifesto commitment and a personal pledge from me.”

Since then, Labour have won a general election, Starmer is prime minister and Sunak is leader of the opposition.

GENERAL ELECTION

Martyn’s Law was mentioned in the King’s Speech as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill and it will require venues to put measures in place to deal with the threat of terrorism.

The King said the legislation would be introduced to improve the safety and security of public venues to ‘keep the British public safe from terrorism’.

NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL SECURITY

Elsewhere in national and international security, police and politicians have a wide range of issues to tackle, with just the first few weeks of the new government seeing violent murders, riots across the country, fears of war spreading the Middle East; and calls to do more to tackle male violence and violence against women and girls. M

SURELOCK MCGILL GROUP: CPD APPROVED WEBINARS

The manufacturing company explains how they can help to build your knowledge of global security

Are you looking to grow your knowledge of international security, ballistic, blast, and life safety standards?

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WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT FROM EACH SESSION?

With extensive expertise in this field, our team will guide you through the key standards related to blast, ballistic, security and life safety protection, growing your industry knowledge in under an hour with a live Q&A to end.

EXPLORE THE CONFLICT BETWEEN COMPLETE SAFETY AND ULTIMATE SECURITY

During this webinar we explore some of the more prominent global life safety and security standards, exploring how these standards are tested, where they are required and examining

how two seemingly conflicting requirements can be achieved together, in harmony. The standards covered in this session include: EN 179, EN 1125, UL 305, UL 10C, EN 1634, LPS 1175, EN 1627, FEBR, PAS24, EN 1522, Certifire.

FUNDAMENTALS OF BLAST AND BLAST RESISTANCE STANDARDS

Join our experts as they guide you through the world of explosives, exploring the standards associated with blasts and how to design and specify to minimise the threats to life and valuable assets. The standards covered in this session include: EN 13123/13124, ISO 16933, ASTM F2927.

EXPLORE THE WORLD OF INTERNATIONAL BALLISTIC STANDARDS

Drawing from many years of experience in designing and manufacturing solutions for ballistic protection, during this webinar our technical experts provide guidance on international ballistic standards and what must be considered to be compliant when protecting buildings. The standards covered during this session include: EN 1522/1523, EN 1063, UL 752, FEBR. M

FURTHER INFORMATION

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ALL SYSTEMS GO FOR THE NEW SEASON

Peter Houghton, director of operations at the Football Safety Officers Association (FSOA) sets out some of the risks that could be experienced during the new football season and what can and is being done about them

As the players are returning for their pre-season training, our safety officers are returning from holiday to see what challenges 2024-2025 will present. With the Euros over, the EFL is already underway and the Premier League is not far behind.

PITCH INCURSIONS

During the Euros, we saw an above average number of “lone wolf” pitch incursions with

individuals trying to get a “selfie” with certain footballers, but apart from that, the German local authorities and police appear to have carried out an excellent operation and delivered an excellent competition.

Pitch incursions and invasions are never far from the headlines and our safety officers, the Premier League and EFL have collaborated extensively designing methods of trying to avoid them. “Lone wolf” incursions are always difficult to predict and the point where the perimeter E

F barrier is breached can never be anticipated. Invasions are easier to predict, but no matter how many stewards a club can parade around the pitch perimeter, they are always outnumbered by the people jumping the fence, meaning that we have to have an equal concern for steward safety. I do like the perimeter wall patrol system they use at Rangers Ibrox Stadium which appears to be quite effective.

An individual running on to the field presents us with additional dangers as we don’t know their intentions, and it could have terrorist overtones.

Safety officers are aware of this and have written their risk assessments and their mitigation strategies.

Clubs have concerns about their stadia and what has come to be known as “Zone-Ex”

MARTYN’S LAW

Martyn’s Law was shelved at the end of the last government, but it was included in the King’s Speech and new prime minister, Sir Keir Starmer has committed to making this law by the end of 2024. Clubs have concerns about their stadia and what has come to be known as “Zone-Ex” – the spaces immediately outside a stadium and on its approaches which inadvertently becomes a “crowded place” on the way to the match.

Grounds that access directly on to busy roads have to implement traffic management programmes which involve road closures and in view of vehicles-borne attacks have taken the decision to acquire additional portable structures to help with the closures and help prevent an attack of this nature. Even a stadium that enjoys an island site may have to put in road closures as part of its egress safety policy.

Our Association has teamed up with key provider, Crowdguard whose kit is visible pretty much all over the country, not only around sports stadia, but also where local authorities have open-access events, an example being the Durham Miners “Big Day” which is attended by close on 30000 people and involves a march through the streets of Durham to the parade grounds. E

F Counter-terrorism remains a massive focus in terms of risk to creating safe spaces for our supporters to watch and enjoy sporting and other events, especially as clubs seek to grow the size of their stadium to accommodate more spectators and in the case of one club, having a brand new 23,000 capacity arena constructed on one of its car parks and therefore affecting the crowd movement around the stadium itself.

Our clubs will be carrying out their risk assessments in respect of this and seeking the advice and help they need to keep their supporters safe. Our Association has a special incentive available to help them with these threat, vulnerability & risk assessments through its sponsorship arrangement with Crowdguard. Needless to say, the demand for this will increase rapidly now clubs are aware that the time for the implementation of the legislation is now closer than the horizon.

SEARCHING

All venues, be they sports stadia, arenas or theatres are seeking to reduce the amount of things people take with them to events. Gone are the days when you can turn up with a rucksack full of food and beverage hoping to avoid the prices being charged at the venue. Attendees should only take with them what they need – a small bag containing bank cards, cash, match ticket, car keys and mobile phone. This is primarily to ensure that the access control timeline is as short as possible.

Stewards have to ensure that flow rates are maintained in order to get everyone in on time and the more “stuff” a spectator has to

Gone are the days when you can turn up with a rucksack full of food and beverage

be checked, the longer it takes and as the vast majority of people attending arrive in the last half hour, it creates log jams at the point of entry. So, the message is… don’t take too much with you. The need to search will not go away, so it important that spectators adhere to the policy in order to get people to their seats as quickly as possible.

What supporters don’t often realise is that the same strategy applies to stewards themselves and catering and hospitality staff. Often a stadium doesn’t have a spare room for match day workers belongings, so it is important that they, too, don’t bring in anything they don’t need to complete their work shift.

STEWARDING

Stewarding itself still remains a challenge. The industry has just about recovered numberswise after Covid. Clubs have to meet minimum requirements as stated in the Green Guide, their own dot maps and Local Authority requirements Clubs feel it is preferable to have their own stewards, but, especially in the Premier League, this is rarely possible, so there is a dependency on supply security companies to provide for the clubs. Many have companies they have used for a while, but with the onset of additional responsibilities, need more and more and it is interesting to see that one of our own major

sponsors, IPM Group UK Ltd, is being asked by an increasing number of clubs if they can help. This demand has seen them grow their portfolio to around 15 clubs now at all levels of the football spectrum.

Our other security partners are also receiving similar demands and thankfully our clubs can safely ensure their fixtures are fulfilled by parading sufficient safety and security staff.

The industry is in the process of “smartening-up” stewarding with a view to creating a career pathway. Additional education and knowledge standards are being created as well as a registration and CPD process with the ultimate view of increasing their pay to better reflect the responsibilities they now have, especially following the Manchester Arena atrocity. This is great news for the stewards, who week after week ensure that the full programmes of sports fixtures can go ahead and are responsible for keeping hundreds of thousands of people safe every week.

Sports grounds have certain positions that can be fulfilled by “safety stewards” and others that need to be fulfilled by “security stewards” and it is a case of “never the twain shall meet” and each steward type requires a different skill set. This can be overcome by training stewards in both sets of skills and this is something the industry is looking at, although the costs involve are quite prohibitive when you take into account the churn of people working in this area.

DRUGS AND PYROTECHNICS

In the post-Covid era the use of cocaine has become an increasing problem around our stadia and in other sorts, notably horse racing and F1 – big full-day outdoor events, where detection is more difficult. Working in days where the relative cost of this particular drug is manageable, we can see some evidence of its use where we didn’t previously. In “normal” society, “snorting a line” is no longer the domain of hidden away areas. Individuals can be see doing this in plain sight across our city centres and indeed in sports grounds. It is difficult to manage as most stewards are not trained in this area as they are only trained to deal with the consequences.

Pyrotechnic devices, especially smoke canisters and flares continue also to be of concern as excessive smoke can often obliterate the view temporarily from the event control room and can provide cover for other misdemeanours.

In the event detection dog world, there simply aren’t enough dogs to go round

Clearly in the cases of both drugs and pyros, the preventative measures begin at the entry point to the stadium, often the turnstile queue. A spectator wouldn’t know whether a detection dog was looking for drugs, pyros or other explosive devices. Generally, around these areas there are likely to be amnesty bins which could collect both drugs or pyros. The person trying to smuggle them in knows the outcome which is likely to be a football banning order, so, a pyrocarrying spectator might put his pyros in the bin thinking it is a pyro dog and a drug-carrying spectator likewise thinking it is a drug detection dog.

In the event detection dog world, there simply aren’t enough dogs to go round. As Martyn’s Law approaches, there will be an increased demand for dogs, not only in a sports grounds context, but in more or less every walk of life. Handling companies are working flat out to train as many as possible, but increased demand from, for example, the Border Force, is taking a lot of dogs out of the sporting arena and into the more public service domain. So, pre-season is just as busy as in-season… and the pre-season friendlies have already started. M

E9 ERGO - FUTURE OF LOAD-BEARING VESTS

Arktis has been dedicated to creating better engineering equipment for frontline professionals since 1985

We use high-quality materials and prioritize improved features and functionality compared to standard gear.

The E9 Molle Vest is a testament to this dedication. Developed in collaboration with scientists and biomechanics at Lincoln University Labs and tested by active police officers, the E9 aims to enhance posture and minimize vest movement. This helps reduce the risk of muscular-skeletal injuries caused by carrying heavy equipment.

DESIGN VARIATIONS

Starting in 2020, the E9 Molle Vest went through three main prototyping phases. The prototype design utilised two of our existing vests, the P9MPS and P1100, as templates. Initially, the focus was on improving sizing and fit across a wide range of body types and sizes.

The second phase involved harness trials, which was the core of the project. The harness system secures the E9 vest to the user and reduces unwanted movement that can lead to injuries.

The final prototype underwent extensive testing at Lincoln University’s labs, which included motion capture, gait analysis, and VO2 Max assessments. This testing resulted in a final design that reduced head acceleration caused by wearing loaded vests, directly addressing the muscular-skeletal injuries wearers suffer.

USER TRIALS

The development of the E9 was informed by extensive consultation and feedback from Lincolnshire Police. It was later expanded to include input from the Greater Manchester and Nottingham Police. In total, 38 officers, including 14 female officers, participated in the trial. The E9 has helped Lincolnshire Police win the Oscar Kilo Absence Management Award by minimizing the muscular-skeletal impact on officers. Our proprietary harness system has proven to be highly effective in this regard.

THE FUTURE

The results of nearly three years of intensive research and development speak for themselves. The development journey has been a great experience and continues with new products and solutions being developed on the back of the extensive R&D we’ve carried out. We’ve got some great new developments still to come, and we’re looking forward to being able to share them soon. Watch this space. M

FURTHER INFORMATION

https://store.arktis.co.uk/ collections/e9-ergo-vest

EFFECTIVE COMMAND AND CONTROL

The National Protective Security Authority (NPSA) explains how control room operators can best prepare for a terrorist attack

Imagine a situation where you work in a security control room in a venue that has large volume of crowds entering and exiting at certain times and a terrorist incident occurs. Is your control room ready to deal with this effectively? Are you prepared? Do the team know their roles and responsibilities?

In the event of a terrorist attack or a serious incident, effective command and control is critical to mitigating the impact of such an attack. In many cases, the security control room is key, and the ability to communicate effectively and to co-ordinate an effective response to an incident is essential.

For control rooms to effectively manage an incident, operators require a range of skills to be able to assess the rapidly evolving situation, make quick, but important decisions to protect crowds and members of staff from the threat, and to manage a coordinated response.

Research by the National Protective Security Authority (NPSA) has shown that security control room operators are often unclear on what time-critical tasks need to be completed and whose responsibility each task is, resulting in duplicated effort at a crucial moment. NPSA’s SCR Operators course has therefore been designed to focus on the roles and E

Control room operators are often unclear on what time-critical tasks need to be completed and whose responsibility each task is

F responsibilities of operators working within a security control room to increase their readiness to deal with incidents.

This five-day course, created using specialist modelling software, incorporates several immersive exercises. The newest of these exercises is set within a stadium environment. It allows operators to practise responding to a realistic stadium attack situation where the operators’ responses affect the outcome of the incident. This helps enhance the operator’s understanding of the impact of any decisions and actions taken and prepares them for potentially the worst situation they might face in a control room.

As one participant commented: “There are control room courses out there, but they don’t go into all of the areas needed for staff to be able to get the knowledge of what goes on in an operational incident and enable them to deal with it swiftly and effectively.”

A separate one-day course for managers or individuals with overall responsibility for security control rooms and incident management is also available.

To save lives, minimise harm, and lessen the overall consequences of a terrorist attack on or in the near vicinity of a premises, it is vital to be prepared. NPSA’s Responding to Terrorist Incidents – Developing Effective Command and Control guidance provides a wealth of information on the planning and preparation that security control room staff should undertake in advance of an attack.

NPSA have also produced a suite of further guidance documents , focusing on building relationships with internal staff, internal departments and neighbours, so that key elements are in place as soon as an incident occurs. Working with neighbours and staff alike, organisations can ensure that plans for responding to incidents is tested to make sure they work, including plans for building evacuation procedures during a terrorist incident.

PROTECTING PEOPLE

One piece of guidance highlights the main security concerns around the entry (ingress) and exit (egress) points at venues and events. The entry and exit points are particularly vulnerable because the start and finish times of events are usually predictable. Crowds can become targets of terrorist attacks, especially during events at popular venues where there will be increased crowds due to people entering and leaving. This can apply to any venue where crowds are likely to form during ingress and egress, including stadiums, concert venues, exhibition centres, theatres, nightclubs, shopping malls, theme parks and temporary festivals.

Keeping people safe during the ingress and egress phase of a venue’s operation is a key security challenge and being prepared is vital to combating any threat. Hostile actors could identify the ingress and egress points at a venue as ‘soft targets’ if security is poorly developed.

Crowds can become targets of terrorist attacks, especially during events at popular venues where there will be increased crowds due to people entering and leaving

This guidance can work in conjunction with the See, Check and Notify (SCaN) guidance, which aims to help businesses and organisations maximise safety and security using their existing resources.

SCaN training empowers staff to correctly identify suspicious activity and know what to do when they encounter it. It helps ensure that individuals or groups seeking to cause an organisation harm are unable to get the information they need to plan their actions. A range of security measures are key to mitigating the impact of a terrorist attack or major incident. NPSA has guidance available to help small business, large organisations, popular events and venues protect their staff and customers. M

About NPSA

NPSA is part of MI5 and is the National Technical Authority for physical and personnel protective security. By making the UK more resilient to national security threats, we help to keep the country safe. NPSA helps organisations understand the range of threats they and the UK face, for example from terrorism, espionage, and state actors.

Based on our world-leading research and development programme and the latest intelligence, we provide guidance, training and tools to enable organisations to minimise their risk through how they operate day to day. NPSA works to keep citizens safe, protect the economy and the UK’s scientific and technological advantage, as well as the infrastructure.

In March 2023, NPSA absorbed the responsibilities of the Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure (CPNI), but with a broader remit, reflecting the fact that the threats the UK faces today extend far beyond critical national infrastructure.

FURTHER INFORMATION

For more information, visit www.npsa.gov.uk

GROUNDBREAKING WEAPONS DETECTION SYSTEM

For more information, contact your CEIA representative at info@ceia.co.uk or call us today at +44 1789 868 840 • +44 7887 421 410

• QUICKLY AND AUTOMATICALLY SCREEN GUESTS with their backpacks and bags

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• EASY TO RELOCATE AND QUICK TO INSTALL: Less than 1 minute setup time

• INDOOR AND OUTDOOR OPERATIONS

CONNECTING THE GLOBAL SECURITY COMMUNITY

International Security Expo returns to Olympia Events for 2024

On 24-25 September 2024 at Olympia Events in London, International Security Expo returns; bigger, better, with more features, and drawing over 10,000 security professionals from across the world. Attendees will represent sectors including critical national infrastructure, transportation, stadiums, public and private sectors, law enforcement, defence and those working on homeland and international security.

A packed exhibition floor will provide visitors the chance to meet with an exceptional range of security manufacturers and suppliers. An incredibly informative content programme will be available to all visitors, alongside exciting new live demonstrations; plus visitors will find many opportunities to network throughout the two-days of the event, including the free Networking Reception at the end of the first day.

SECURITY INSIGHTS YOU WON’T FIND ANYWHERE ELSE

Further building on the event’s reputation for delivering exceptional content, this year visitors can expect to hear from some fantastic speakers, all free of charge and with all talks CPD-certified.

On the Global Counter Terror & Security Summit (with Counter Terror Business returning as Summit media partner) you will find high-level policy updates and strategic insights addressing the latest global terror and security trends, as well as priorities.

A key subject will be Martyn’s Law. With the new Government’s commitment to deliver the legislation and its inclusion in this new Parliament’s king’s speech, visitors will get to hear from Shaun Hipgrave who heads up the Government’s Homeland Security Group, who have drafted the legislation, and from NaCTSO (National Counter Terrorism Security Office) who will be implementing it. Figen Murray OBE will be in discussion with Supt Amanda King, head of NaCTSO as part of the popular realities of Terror thread, whilst Travis Frain OBE will have his own talk and join a panel sharing the lived experience of terrorism. E

Visual surveillance, scanning & monitoring solutions.

We have led the way in providing the latest and most effective technologies to the security industry, Governments and critical infrastructure for over 35 years.

Whether you are looking for the latest surveillance technology or need the most effective and easily deployed security scanning devices Inspectahire will have a solution to most effectively support your needs or assignment.

UK Distributor for the world leading:

F Other talks on the Summit from those working to steer national strategy include Phil Douglas, Director General of Border Force, speaking about the future of UK border security – a subject that couldn’t be more topical. Abu Ahmed, head of JSaRC, will provide an update on the Joint Security and Resilience Centre’s priorities, whilst Jon Savell, Deputy Assistant Commissioner for Counter Terrorism Policing, will discuss their current priorities.

A host of other speakers on the Summit, will cover subjects from how the current Middle East conflict may affect terrorist acts, protective security challenges and advances, an overview of the UK Counter Weapons Threat Team Capability and talks on the role cybersecurity plays in terrorism and threats to national security.

On the International Security & Resilience Conference, sponsored by CSL, essential topics covered will include everything from aviation security to HVM at the UEFA 2024 tournament, diversity in the industry to protecting women from violence, reconstruction in Ukraine and so much more.

The quality of speakers across the talks and panels is exceptional. Fay Tennet, deputy director of security liaison for The Royal Household will be asking if you’re prepared for the worst, as she talks about the terrorist attack outside Parliament in 2017. Sgt. George Vit from South Brunswick Township Police Department will discuss technology in Law Enforcement in the United States, and how

British companies should do business with the over 17,000 police departments in the US.

Across both the Summit and the Conference, you will find even more international speakers than ever before, who will be giving a crucial global perspective on the security issues affecting everyone the world over.

CELEBRATING INNOVATION IN SECURITY

The continuing importance of innovation within the security sector means the exhibition floor will be the place to be if you want to discover the latest products and solutions that are coming to market.

The over 300 global exhibiting brands cover the entire spectrum of the sector, with products on display including hostile vehicle mitigation, perimeter protection, access control & biometrics, intruder detection/monitoring, communication, drone & counter drone, IT/ command & control, CCTV & surveillance, training, CBRN, blast protection and much more.

This year’s Premier Partners include Apstec Systems, Astrophysics, ATG Access, Audax Global Solutions, Gallagher Security, Inner Range, Kosedag, LINEV Systems UK, Mitie Security, Parking Facilities, Pitagone, Rapiscan Systems, Rohde & Schwarz, Safe Crowds, Smiths Detection Group, Varex and Weytec.

An all new Innovation Trail will guide you to the exhibitors and products shortlisted for the inaugural Innovation Award, with the winner announced at the free to attend Networking Drinks Reception at the end of day one. E

F NEW EXCITING LIVE IMMERSIVE DEMONSTRATOR

An exciting addition to this year’s event is the all new Live Immersive Demonstrator, produced in partnership with CrisisCast. This Demonstrator will really showcase the practical applications of exhibitor products in simulated real-life environments, including aviation and sporting event security scenarios. Visitors will see how best to deal with complex multilayered terrorist incidents, whilst prioritising public safety.

In the Counter Threat Pavilion, run in participation with ADS special interest groups CBRN UK, Counter-EO UK and DPAC, there will be thrilling counter explosive ordnance and CBRN demonstrations, as well as some fun demo’s you can participate in. The LPCB Live Testing Lab sees a superb line-up of companies who are all wanting to have their products tested live in front of you to show just how well they perform.

Within the Government Zone, Border Force return and will be showing how they detect concealment, whilst their dog team will be providing demonstrations. British Transport Police will also be running demonstrations in the Zone with their Special Response Unit and Firearms teams. This year’s Government Zone will also include JSaRC, NaCTSO, Counter Terrorism Policing, DASA, UKDSE, SIA, ACE, FCDO Services and many more.

WHERE PHYSICAL SECURITY AND CYBER SECURITY MEET

For the third year-running International Cyber Expo will take place alongside International Security Expo, in the adjacent National Hall at Olympia Events. A free pass will give you full

access to both events. With cyber security now such an ever-present concern, International Cyber Expo offers attendees a 360° view of the industry. It will provide a comprehensive platform to identify products and services from all corners of the sector whilst some of the best experts in the industry will discuss the most pressing cyber security topics.

Rachael Shattock, group event director, International Security Expo, added:

“This year’s International Security Expo is going to be unmissable. The new Live Immersive Demonstrator will offer an exciting experience for attendees, and we are thrilled to launch the Innovation Award & Trail as well as an all new Aviation Security Award & Trail. We have invested even further in making International Security Expo a truly global event, with more speakers coming from overseas to give a crucial worldwide perspective, whilst our International Delegations Programme will host active security buyers looking for the latest innovations to keep us all safe. The exhibition floor will be full of companies showcasing their latest security innovations, and the ability to also access co-located International Cyber Expo really makes attending this year’s event essential for global security professionals. I really hope to see you at Olympia Events in London this year on 24-25 September.” M

FURTHER INFORMATION

For more information and to register to attend this year’s International Security Expo and International Cyber Expo for free, please visit: www.internationalsecurityexpo.com/ctb

Introducing the revolutionary Tactical Headsets - designed for clarity and performance in any environment.

Experience a new level of noisecanceling communication with cutting-edge neckmic technology, delivering crystalclear sound by capturing your voice directly from the neckskin while isolating it from surrounding noise.

NO MORE NOISE, JUST YOUR VOICE

Available for most twoway radio, PoC devices and smartphones on the market

THE NECK MICROPHONE OF TODAY

When you hear the word “throat-mic,” you might picture something useful in high-noise environments but hampered by muffled voice quality and uncomfortable to wear. But that image is now outdated

Tactical Headsets Sweden has revolutionised this technology, offering a new era of communication devices that defy these old limitations.

Tactical Headsets Sweden has spent over 20 years perfecting their groundbreaking neck microphone technology. Working closely with the Swedish defense forces, who have been utilising these systems since 2007, they have developed a patented design that redefines expectations. This innovative neck microphone, paired with noisereducing in-ear speakers, ensures loud and clear communication in any environment. The system is not only extremely lightweight and durable but also remarkably comfortable.

The key to this technology lies in the neck microphone’s unique capability. Unlike traditional throat- microphones, which struggle with placement and can produce muffled voice transmission, Tactical Headsets’ neck microphone captures the user’s voice directly from the neck skin. This method isolates the voice from surrounding noise, ensuring clear communication even in the noisiest environments. This groundbreaking technology is complemented by in-ear speakers that provide full hearing protection and deliver high-quality audio, allowing users to maintain sharp and clear communication.

Designed, developed, and manufactured in Southern Sweden, Tactical Headsets combines

Swedish engineering excellence with practical innovation. The collaboration with the Swedish defense forces has been crucial in refining this technology to meet the rigorous demands of realworld applications. The result is a product that stands out in terms of performance, durability, and comfort.

One of the standout features of Tactical Headsets is their in-ear speakers. These are not just any speakers; they offer superior noise reduction, protecting the user’s hearing while ensuring that communication remains clear and undistorted. This feature is particularly important in military and high-noise industrial environments, where clear communication is critical for safety and efficiency.

Moreover, the lightweight design of Tactical Headsets ensures that they can be worn for extended periods without causing discomfort. This is a significant improvement over traditional throat-mics, which can often be cumbersome and uncomfortable to wear for long durations.

Tactical Headsets Sweden has set a new standard in communication technology with their advanced neck microphone system. Their commitment to innovation, combined with practical design and robust performance, makes their headsets the ideal choice for anyone needing reliable, clear communication in challenging environments. Whether for military, industrial, or emergency services use, Tactical Headsets provide an unparalleled solution, proving that the neck microphone of today is a game-changer in communication technology. M

ENSURING CONSISTENT STANDARDS FOR PROTECT DUTY IMPLEMENTATION

The Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) discusses the importance of frontline door security in counter terrorism

In an era where the threat of terrorism looms large, the role of frontline door security has never been more critical. This role extends beyond simple access control; it encompasses the protection of public spaces, ensuring safety, and maintaining public trust. As the UK moves towards the implementation of Protect Duty, also known as Martyn’s Law, the need for stringent and consistent security standards becomes paramount. However, significant challenges such as tax

disparity, inconsistent vetting standards, lack of compliance, and untracked non-Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS) security resource supply companies threaten to undermine these efforts.

Frontline door security is often the first line of defence against potential terrorist threats. Trained security personnel can identify suspicious behaviour, manage crowd control, and respond swiftly to emergencies, thereby mitigating risks. Their presence serves as

both a deterrent to potential attackers and a reassurance to the public. In high-risk environments, such as large venues, hospitality settings, and crowded public spaces, their role is indispensable.

Despite the importance of frontline door security, several systemic issues within the private security sector jeopardise the effectiveness of these measures. The recent refusal by the Home Office to implement business licensing for private security companies is a significant concern. According to the Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) and the UK Door Security Association (UKDSA), this decision weakens the sector’s ability to protect the public from terrorist threats and compromises the future implementation of Martyn’s Law.

TAX

A major issue is the tax disparity across the industry. In particular ACS-accredited companies are required to employ all their operatives via Pay As You Earn (PAYE) schemes. In contrast, a considerable proportion of the businesses within the sector often use Untaxed Trading Receipts (UTR) self-employed schemes, allowing them to maximise their financial positions and offer more competitive rates. This practice not only creates an uneven playing field but also encourages tax avoidance and

Many companies undergo rigorous checks to ensure their personnel are properly vetted and trained

undermines the financial integrity of the sector, but this is now being addressed through the agency’s act with HMRC now coming down on companies who are not using PAYE Schemes

LICENSING

The lack of a standardised vetting process across the industry poses a severe threat. Many companies undergo rigorous checks to ensure their personnel are properly vetted and trained. However, there are a considerable number of companies that operate without such stringent requirements. This gap allows individuals with insufficient training and questionable backgrounds to work in sensitive security roles, increasing the risk of infiltration by malicious actors.

The NTIA and UKDSA estimate that approximately 8 - 12,000 frontline security resource supply companies operate within the hospitality and night-time economy sectors, many of which remain untraceable by regulators and government departments. The current ACS, with only around 800 voluntary members, relies heavily on self-assessment, raising questions about the regulator’s ability to control this segment of the sector effectively. This lack of oversight results in a fragmented industry with varying levels of compliance and accountability. E

The NTIA and UKDSA, along with other industry stakeholders, continue to advocate for comprehensive reforms

F The refusal by the Home Office to pursue business licensing leaves a significant void in the regulatory framework needed to support Protect Duty. Without mandatory licensing, there is no assurance that security resource suppliers meet the necessary standards of vetting, insurance, and training required to keep public spaces safe. This oversight is particularly concerning as businesses across the UK prepare to implement Protect Duty, designed to enhance the protection of public premises from terrorist attacks.

The Manchester Arena Inquiry highlighted these issues, recommending amendments to the Private Security Act (PSA) legislation to require licensing for companies involved in counter-terrorism-related security work. This change would ensure that only fit and proper companies operate in this critical area, adhering to robust procedures and training to mitigate terrorist risks.

REFORMS

The NTIA and UKDSA, along with other industry stakeholders, continue to advocate for comprehensive reforms. They emphasise the need for business licensing to ensure consistent

standards across the sector. Southern Ireland and Australia have implemented similar licensing regimes, demonstrating their efficacy in maintaining high security standards and protecting public safety.

Michael Kill, CEO of the NTIA, stresses the urgency of these reforms: “Following the recommendations from the Manchester Arena Inquiry, the refusal by the Home Office to implement a business licensing scheme for all private security businesses is a considerable oversight. The Home Secretary and Security Minister have little or no grasp of the issues faced by the sector, particularly one that is on the verge of implementing a new duty to protect premises accessed by the public from a potential terror threat.”

The implementation of Protect Duty is a critical step towards enhancing public safety in the face of evolving terrorist threats. However, without consistent standards and robust regulatory oversight, the effectiveness of frontline door security will be severely compromised. Addressing the challenges of tax disparity, inconsistent vetting standards, lack of compliance, and the absence of business licensing is essential to fortify the private security sector. The Home Office must reconsider its stance and work collaboratively with industry stakeholders to ensure that the security infrastructure in place is capable of protecting the public and maintaining trust in these turbulent times. M

THE EMERGENCY SERVICES SHOW

Experience the future of emergency services at Europe’s largest annual trade show for blue light innovation

The Emergency Services Show returns to the NEC Birmingham from 18-19 September 2024, and promises to break new ground as Europe’s largest event series dedicated to product innovation, exclusive networking opportunities, and vital learnings for the UK and international emergency services sector.

Co-located with The Emergency Tech Show (ETS), The Emergency Services Show guarantees an impressive lineup of sector-leading exhibitors, an unrivalled content programme, and an essential destination for procurement specialists, decision-makers and frontline operational personnel from police, fire & rescue, ambulance, search & rescue, support and voluntary sectors.

Attendees will experience an exclusive first-hand look into the latest products and solutions on offer from over 600 exhibitors and

over 1000 brands who, working in partnership with frontline professionals, are dedicated to revolutionising emergency response.

The only event series of its kind for the sector, this exceptional showcase of technology innovation and ground-breaking solution providers covers the entire emergency services landscape, with products ranging from vehicle and fleet management, IT and communications, medical and fire fighting equipment, control room solutions, virtual reality training simulations, AI for predictive emergency response and planning, and more.

The Emergency Tech Show will again showcase the most advanced technologies driving the digital transformation of the emergency services sector and provides vital insights into technological developments via the Technology Main Stage and Tech Hub E

F seminar theatres. New for 2024, ETS has proudly partnered with techUK for the exclusive techUK Pavilion, a hub for exploring innovative technology solutions from emerging SMEs and startups. Attendees can explore cutting-edge solutions tailored to the emergency services sector from up-and-coming tech trailblazers.

“Staying ahead of the curve is crucial in ensuring effective emergency response,” said David Brown, event director of The Emergency Services Show and The Emergency Tech Show. “And the rate at which technology is transforming the ways our teams respond to and recover from the most serious of situations is truly remarkable. Our events provide a pivotal platform for the entire sector to access cuttingedge solutions and training that enhance multiagency collaboration and immediate and longterm resilience.”

A host of new features are planned for 2024, including the NFCC Future Firefighter PPE Theatre, sponsored by Enduro Protect, which offers an exclusive opportunity to join the discussion on ensuring future personal

protective equipment is fit for purpose for the next generation of firefighters.

In partnership with Coventry University Simulation Centre, the show’s new People and Skills Stage, focuses on the evolving training and development landscape to enhance the emergency services workers’ lifelong professional skills, ensuring they remain the vital asset the community relies on for safety.

In a first for The Emergency Services Show, the Sustainability Stage is dedicated to decarbonising the blue light sector, exploring innovative solutions for green fleets, emissions reduction, and collaborative approaches to achieving net zero. Supporting this green focus, the Emergency Services Environment and Sustainability Group, part of the National Police Estates Group (NPEG), will be hosting exclusive member meetings on enhancing environmental management practices across the sector, and will offer their expert insights as we plan our environment and sustainability content agenda.

Returning for 2024, the Policing Stage features speakers from frontline policing and research, offering CPD-accredited sessions with valuable case studies and insights to enhance public trust and improve policing practices.

Networking remains a key focus of the ESS experience, with a host of exciting events planned to build upon the fantastic blue light community already established in past editions of The Emergency Services Show. The everpopular Networking Café returns as a central hub for connecting with colleagues, whilst blue light tech experts and digital transformation leads can head over to the Tech Bar at The Emergency Tech Show to catch up and geek out over the coolest new kit and tech available from leading suppliers of ICT technologies.

Registration is now open, sponsored by MSA Safety, and offers access to both vital blue light events on one free pass and including complimentary parking at the NEC for the duration of your visit.

About The Emergency Services Show

The Emergency Services Show, first launched in 2006 and now in its 18th edition, is the UK’s annual showcase for the blue light sector bringing all disciplines from the police, fire and rescue, ambulance, and search and rescue services to discover innovative technology and operational solutions, share their experiences and unite in their collaborative approach to public safety. The show attracts over 16,000 visitors, features more than 550 exhibitors, live demonstrations, free CPD-accredited content, and exclusive networking opportunities.

About The Emergency Tech Show

The Emergency Tech Show is the UK’s largest showcase of emergency technologies and innovations that are driving change in the emergency services, offering more opportunities to discover the next generation of emergency tech for the sector. Co-located with The Emergency Services Show, over 8,000 blue light professionals and tech enthusiasts will connect with more than 150 world-class manufacturers and suppliers displaying their latest innovative solutions, and over 30 expert speakers sharing their experiences and knowledge.

About Emergency Services Times

Emergency Services Times is the premier resource for the blue light sector, delivering comprehensive news, industry insights, and expert analysis for over 24 years. With a strong

focus on innovations and developments, Emergency Services Times serves as an essential media source, established as a trusted authority in emergency services news. You can learn more about it here M

FURTHER INFORMATION

For more information about The Emergency Services Show 2024, visit www.emergencyuk.com

For The Emergency Tech Show 2024, visit www.emergencytechshow.com

Protecting Assets, and their Owners.

Conducting in depth analysis to uncover risks & vulnerabilities. Discover

Establishing tailored solutions. Proven yet customisable. Design Implementing strategies to enhance safety and aesthetics. Develop

Giving Landowners the assurance of certified security with compliant HVM solutions.

PLACING A SPOTLIGHT ON PUBLIC SAFETY

Tradition security and measures may be effective, but can often be unattractive or intrusive

The new regulations currently approaching the United Kingdom, a global leader in security compliance, are among several factors placing a spotlight on public safety. It’s becoming apparent that most public and private environments where there is a gathering of people are, typically, not sufficiently protected. The onus lays heavily on land owners and Asset Management, who will be faced with an important conundrum. Ensuring and if possible exceeding compliance, with evidence based solutions, will naturally remain at the forefront of priorities as there can be no doubt allowed to remain as to whether an environment is secure or not.

The Gold Standard represents Logic Protects’ commitment to providing solutions which are a cut above standard certification; true confidence comes when compliance is exceeded.

As well as this compulsory requirement to mitigate any uncertainty as to compliance comes other factors, which all need balancing.

Both public and private spaces, especially commercial venues such as shopping centres, thrive on their ability to offer a pleasant and inviting environment. Traditional security measures, although effective, can sometimes appear intrusive or unsightly. The challenge lies in implementing security measures that are both effective and subtle, enhancing the sense of safety

without detracting from the space’s visual appeal or brand image.

Logic Protect provides specialist HVM consultancy; sharing innovative HVM strategies and implementing compliant systems to assist the development of safe and extraordinary spaces.

The culmination of this vision has been the development of a proven methodology.

DISCOVER – CONDUCTING IN DEPTH ANALYSIS TO UNCOVER RISKS AND VULNERABILITIES

This initial phase involves a thorough analysis of yourenvironment aimed at uncovering risks and vulnerabilities within your environment. By meticulously examining various factors, we discover the unique challenges your space presents, laying the foundation for moving forward with effective protection solutions.

DESIGN – ESTABLISHING TAILORED SOLUTIONS. PROVEN YET CUSTOMISED

Transitioning from discovery, we design specific and bespoke solutions that are both effective and adaptable to your space. Drawing upon proven methodologies, we draft robust strategies that provide you with a reliable blueprint for the prevention of a vehicle-borne attack.

DEVELOP – IMPLEMENTING STRATEGIES WHICH EXEED COMPLIANCE AND ENHANCE AESTHETICS

In the final stage, we work together to implement security strategies, prioritizing both compliance and aesthetics. By integrating innovative technologies and strategic approaches, your space will not only be protected but also enhanced visually. This comprehensive approach enhances both functionality and design, creating a beautiful and secure environment. M

FURTHER INFORMATION

protect.logic-global.co.uk

WPS is a unique company specialising in the maintenance of HVM & Perimeter Security equipment for all manufacturers equipment, we work with manufacturers offering installation and maintenance support as well as directly for end users such as Airports, High Security Facilities, Data Centres, Government Buildings, Police Stations etc.

We have a team of time served and trained engineers specifically dedicated to the Installation & maintenance of HVM equipment and can offer:

• Annual PPM maintenance

• Reactive callouts

• Reactive Repairs

We have the ability to work with most manufacturers equipment both in the UK & Overseas.

UNDERSTANDING VEHICLE ATTACK DELAY STANDARD AND IMPACT TESTING CONFIGURATIONS FOR EFFECTIVE SECURITY

Hostile Vehicle Mitigation (HVM) is crucial for protecting high-risk areas and large events from vehicle-based attacks. Understanding impact testing configurations, distinguishing it from National Protective Security Authority’s Vehicle Attack Delay Standards (VADS), and implementing an integrated security approach can significantly improve protection measures. Paul Jeffrey, PSSA (Perimeter Security Suppliers Association) explains…

Ensuring the integrity and reliability of safety and security installations is paramount. Adherence to impact-tested configurations is often overlooked but critical. Products undergo rigorous impact testing under specific conditions, including the exact number and arrangement of upstands or other support mechanisms. “Deviating from these tested configurations can lead to suboptimal performance and potential security hazards”.

The Hostile Vehicle Mitigation Installers Scheme (HVMIS) ensures accredited companies follow the correct installation guidelines for as tested configurations. PSSA member companies adhere to the HVMIS guidance, which places a strong emphasis on communication, compliance and quality assurance to maintain a consistent standard. Additionally, mandatory maintenance and operational training are integral to the process, ensuring clients have E

Frontier Pitts, Crompton House, Crompton Way, Manor Royal, Crawley, RH10 9QZ

F a comprehensive understanding and management capability of the systems. Impact testing involves subjecting a security barrier to a controlled collision with a specified vehicle (weight and speed) to determine its effectiveness in stopping or mitigating the force of the impact. These tests simulate real-world scenarios, ensuring the barriers can withstand specific levels of force.

When a product is impact tested with a specific number of units/upstands, such as eight, it is vital that it is installed with the same number. “The performance of the barrier is directly linked to its tested configuration - deviating from this setup can significantly compromise the barrier’s effectiveness. The structural integrity of the barrier as a whole relies on the number and placement of upstands. Reducing the number can weaken the overall strength and stability.”

Impact forces are distributed across the upstands. Fewer upstands mean higher force per unit, potentially leading to creating additional penetration through the barrier which could impact the perceived protected space. Testing provides a predictable

The performance of the barrier is directly linked to its tested configuration

performance benchmark. Altering the configuration makes the actual performance unpredictable and unreliable.

VADS provides a means for testing Vehicle Security Barriers (VSBs) against aggressive and repetitive vehicle impacts and are designed to stop a slower speed vehicle attack. VADS rated VSBs are not a substitute for ISO 22343, which is the latest vehicle test standard, IWA 14-1, ASTM International and PAS 68 rated vehicle security barriers.

VADS rated VSBs provide an alternative riskbased option for event managers and other risk owners: pragmatic, affordable and achievable levels protection, typically for, but not exclusively, temporary events. “Any installation of VADS should be installed following a thorough risk assessment to determine the vulnerability and risk to understand that this is a proportionate level of protection and the E

Heald’s multi-award winning sliding bollard system, the Matador is a patent-protected security system, crash tested to different IWA Standards

F owner or operator is fully aware of the limitations and residual risk.”

Any installation should be installed based on full understanding of their performance capability, they may include bollards, planters, and decorative barriers. Impact-rated systems, on the other hand, are specifically tested to withstand vehicular impacts. These systems are engineered to absorb and dissipate the force of an impact, providing a higher level of security. Examples include crash barriers, impact-tested bollards/roadblockers/gates and barriers, as well as hostile vehicle mitigation fences.

GUIDANCE

To ensure compliance and safety, it is crucial to follow the manufacturer’s installation guidelines and configurations, conduct regular inspections and maintenance of installed barriers to ensure they remain in optimal condition, and engage with security experts and engineers to ensure the chosen systems meet the specific security needs and are installed correctly. Proper installation of impact-tested configurations is non-negotiable when it comes to ensuring the effectiveness of security barriers. Understanding the differences between VADS and impact-rated systems helps in making informed decisions about security investments. By following tested configurations and adhering to strict installation guidelines, we can ensure the safety and security of public spaces and infrastructure against vehicle attacks.

To ensure compliance and safety, it is crucial to follow the manufacturer’s installation guidelines and configurations

The new NPSA guidance, “Security on Your Side,” emphasises a holistic security approach. This involves integrating physical security measures, personnel training, and robust policies into all aspects of operations. Security should be treated as a fundamental component of every process. The guidance reinforces the importance of using impact-tested configurations for barriers and other security installations, stressing that products must be installed exactly as they were tested to ensure their effectiveness in real-world scenarios.

TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT

Traffic management is another critical aspect of event security. Effective traffic calming measures, such as installing speed humps, bumps, and rumble strips on approach roads, can naturally slow down vehicles. Clear, visible signage and lane narrowing techniques also help reduce vehicle speeds. Changing the layout by introducing chicanes and setting up security checkpoints at a distance from the main event area can further enhance security.

A holistic approach to security for each event should be tailored to the specific threats and vulnerabilities identified and assessed

TAILORED SECURITY

A holistic approach to security for each event should be tailored to the specific threats and vulnerabilities identified and assessed. For instance, a major outdoor concert would benefit from impact-rated barriers at strategic points, speed reduction measures on approach roads, and a well-coordinated layered security system.

“HVM should never be installed as a stand-alone tick in the box as part of the Traffic management plan. HVM forms part of the overall counter terrorism plan and should always be a combination of correctly installed product and well defined processes.”

Clear signage, effective communication with attendees, and regular training and drills for security personnel ensure a swift and efficient response to any incidents.

In summary, effective HVM relies on a thorough understanding of the specific threat vulnerabilities and risk of what we are trying to protect. Vehicle security barriers should be used in conjunction with thorough training, and procedures so that owners and operators can have adequate time to respond to any potential attack.

Following strict guidelines and taking a comprehensive approach to security can greatly improve safety for public spaces and events. Regular training, maintenance, and sticking to tested configurations are essential to a strong security strategy. By doing this, we can better protect against vehicle attacks and ensure safer environments for everyone.

“VSBs should always be installed as tested and always with the correct amount of upstands that the product was rated to so we fully understand how the product is likely to perform.”

The best practice and standards set out in existing NPSA guidance provides the highest level of protection and include the preferred deployment of permanent and semi-permanent IWA14-1, ISO 22343 and PAS68 rated VSBs. M

FURTHER INFORMATION

pssasecurity.org

The ARX STOPPER!™ is a pedestrian-permeable surface-mount HVM (Hostile Vehicle Mitigation) barrier rated to PAS68, IWA14. This product holds an NPSA Vehicle Attack Delay Standard (VADS) rating.

CROWDGUARD SECURES EXCLUSIVE PARTNERSHIPS

Crowdguard has cemented its position as a trusted partner in the events market by securing exclusive distribution agreements with leading HVM manufacturers

In an era where security at events is paramount, Crowdguard is proud to announce its exclusive partnerships and distribution agreements with several leading Hostile Vehicle Mitigation (HVM) manufacturers. This milestone solidifies our position as a trusted partner in the events market, offering premium protection with products such as the Unafor Core, Husson H Stop, RB50, The Claw, ARX Stopper, and ATG Access Surface Guard.

DEDICATED TO COUNTER-TERRORISM

Our commitment to HVM as a critical component of counter-terrorism strategies underscores the importance of our work. While our solutions integrate seamlessly with traffic management plans, we emphasise the vital role of HVM in protecting against hostile vehicle attacks. At Crowdguard, we believe effective HVM installation is a sophisticated blend of high-quality products and installation and meticulous processes. Our approach ensures that every HVM design and specification is proportionate and tailored to support owners and operators in implementing appropriate mitigation solutions.

WHY MANUFACTURERS TRUST CROWDGUARD

Commitment to Quality: Every installation by Crowdguard is treated with the utmost importance. We ensure that HVM installations are not an afterthought but a priority, executed with precision and adherence to tested specifications and designs. Holistic Approach: Our solutions are not one-size-fits-all. We provide a comprehensive suite of HVM options, ensuring the right fit for every unique event and venue. Education and Support: We drive continual education in the market, supporting event organisers at every step. This commitment to knowledge and support reassures manufacturers that their products are in capable hands, protecting not just the attendees but the integrity of their brands.

TESTIMONIALS FROM OUR PARTNERS

Husson International: “Crowdguard’s unwavering focus on counter-terrorism through robust HVM strategies sets them apart. Their meticulous approach to installation and their dedication to quality assurance make them an invaluable partner for our products.” — Yan Ferrieres, overseas sales consultant

ARX Security: “As the manufacturer of the ARX Stopper! HVM barrier, we needed a trusted partner to offer expert risk assessments and appropriate installations according to the tested arrays. We can recommend Crowdguard for their expertise in all aspects of HVM deployment. Their dedication to providing tailored solutions ensures that our products are implemented effectively, offering maximum protection.”

— Eric Swithenbank, managing director

Unafor: “Unafor’s goal is to create safe urban spaces without compromising aesthetics or design creativity. With their Plan, Provide, Protect motto and turnkey service offering, Crowdguard has quickly shown themselves to be the ideal partner to provide our innovative, certified solutions throughout the UK.” — Wyatt Harding, CEO ATG Access: “Crowdguard’s ethos of prioritising quality and process in temporary HVM installations aligns with our values. Their support and educational initiatives in the market provide confidence that our ATG Surface Guard products are being used to their full potential.”

— Richard Ellis, managing director Highway Care: “Crowdguard is a trusted partner for Highway Care. They understand the importance of specifying an appropriate and proportionate HVM solution for each project, and the need for correct installation and quality assurance so that our products always perform to their tested certification. When it comes to mitigating risk, professionalism matters, and that’s exactly what Crowdguard delivers.” — Ben Dunker, commercial director

A WORD FROM OUR FOUNDER

Deborah Ainscough, founder of Crowdguard, reflects on this achievement:

“Our mission has always been to uphold the highest standards of security through meticulous planning and execution of HVM installations. These exclusive partnerships

underscore our unwavering commitment to counter-terrorism. We are honoured that leading manufacturers trust us to safeguard their products and brand integrity. Each installation is treated with the utmost importance and undergoes rigorous quality assurance, ensuring it is implemented according to tested specifications and design.”

A TRUSTED PARTNER FOR GLOBAL MANUFACTURERS

Crowdguard continues to lead the way in HVM, providing bespoke solutions and unwavering support to the events market. Our partnerships with leading manufacturers from around the globe reflect the trust placed in us to safeguard events and protect the public. By prioritising counter-terrorism through effective HVM strategies, Crowdguard not only protects its clients but also enhances the overall security standards of the industry.

ABOUT CROWDGUARD

Crowdguard specialises in providing comprehensive HVM solutions tailored to the needs of event organisers and venue operators. With a focus on counter-terrorism, we ensure that every installation meets the highest standards of safety and effectiveness. Our partnerships with leading HVM manufacturers and commitment to market education make us a trusted name in event security. M

REDEFINING THE SECURITY LANDSCAPE

Security company Global Protect discusses how they are making an impact in the industry

Global Protect Security is a newly established specialist security company dedicated to providing bespoke, independent security assessments across the physical, technical, and online domains. In just under a year, we have become a significant force in the UK security sector, earning the trust of major corporations and global clients.

At GP, we strive to redefine the specialist security landscape within the UK and beyond. In doing this we make it our mission to lead the industry by offering holistic and independent solutions that can accommodate the vast and diverse needs of clients. Our company is grounded in our core values of excellence, respect, integrity, and collaboration, as we extend our reach to a global audience.

Our team has a combined experience of over 150 years in delivering global security assessments, often in high threat environments. Our strategic vision is spearheaded by an expert leadership team who hold a wealth of knowledge. Each member of our diverse team embodies our core values, ensuring an exceptional and reliable service for all. As a collective, we take immense pride in our individual roles within GP and aim to identify all existing and emerging security threats faced by our clients both in the UK and overseas.

We specialise in physical and technical, security, offering a comprehensive range of services tailored to meet the complex needs of our clients. From our flagship Security Threat Risk and Terrorism Assessment (STRATA) to our bespoke Personal Vulnerability Assessment (PVA), we deliver converged security assessments underpinned by comprehensive digital intelligence. This ensures our security audits reflect the true threat landscape and are bespoke to each client. With significant experience in the delivery ofTechnical Surveillance Counter Measures (TSCM) assessments, we pride ourselves in our track record of supporting organisations to develop their own Counter Eavesdropping strategies whilst supporting them with our assessments using cutting edge equipment. With a focus on professionalism and efficiency, we strive to produce outstanding results in every project we undertake.

Our customised services cater to our diverse clientele, ranging from commercial businesses and corporate clients to government entities and high net-worth individuals. We address the security needs of every client with a high level of accuracy, offering not just a security assessment but continued assurance alongside a strong professional relationship.

In the future, Global Protect has committed to expanding rapidly both domestically and internationally, striving to become leaders within the industry. Through continued investment in training and technology, we aim to maintain our competitive edge and uphold our commitment to integrity and excellence. To our clients, we are more than just a service provider; we are trusted partners dedicated to safeguarding and upholding exceptional standards.

MANCHESTER SURVIVORS CHOIR

Alison Aitken, Manchester Survivors’ Choir chair explains how the choir came about and the impact it has had

The Manchester Survivors Choir was established in 2018, following the Manchester Arena Bombing. The choir is comprised of bereaved, survivors and those affected by the tragic events of the 22nd May 2017.

The choir was the idea of Andrea Bradbury, who retired in March 2017 after serving for thirty years in the police as a Detective Inspector in the counter terrorism branch. Andrea’s daughter and her friend, being keen musical theatre performers themselves, had booked tickets for the Ariana Grande concert. They were both fifteen at the time.

Andrea and her friend Barbara were waiting for their daughters in the city room when the bomb detonated. They were the closest people to the bomber to survive. They both suffered shrapnel wounds and later had to undergo surgery for their injuries. Despite being in counter terrorism, it was an extremely traumatic experience both mentally and physically for Andrea and also for her friend Barbara (a teaching assistant). They both suffered from survivors’ guilt, knowing that twenty-two people had been killed and that number included children. Whilst their daughters escaped physically uninjured, E

F they had also experienced and witnessed the devasting events.

THERAPEUTIC SINGING

Having already been part of a church choir, and because of her daughter’s love of musical theatre, singing was a source of comfort and safety for them. Andrea wondered if young people, who had an obvious love of music being at a concert, might also find singing therapeutic. Her idea was to bring them together to not only sing but also to share a drink, cake and be able to talk to other people who had shared experiences to try and make sense of what had happened.

Following the attack, the police set up an online support group on which Andrea posted her idea and was contacted by another lady and

The common bond of music and a sense of trying to establish a new normal was easier when you had a friend who understood

a young person and the three of them together formed the choir group, with the first meeting taking place in a small church in Manchester in February 2018.

Not long after its launch, Songs of Praise and the media heard about the group and it expanded much quicker than anyone imagined. The choir were asked to perform at the first anniversary of the attack. Despite the first meeting being one of tears and hugs and not really saying a great deal to each other and indeed many of us have never revealed the full stories of our experiences of that night, we felt that the common bond of music and a sense of trying to establish a new normal was easier when you had a friend who understood. Many of our families did not understand what we had experienced and it was simply easier to hug someone who knew what you were feeling. The first meeting was attended by just 18 people. Andrea remembers how difficult it was to even drive into the city again and experiencing feeling lost but through the common bond that brought us together we have managed to do amazing things. The choir members were also supported by others such as the Christie Hospital and the Peace Centre

The choir has helped people get back into the city, to attend concerts again and take part in holistic therapies

in Warrington and through their support the choir has helped people get back into the city, to attend concerts again and take part in holistic therapies.

PERFORMANCES

At its peak, the choir had around ninety members who have sung at many events in the UK and in Nice, France. These include televised events, for the Mayor Andy Burnham, The National Emergencies Trust launch and the Westminster Bridge Memorial Service attended by the Prime Minister, in support of those affected by trauma, the public who have helped us and for charitable purposes. Whilst our members are lower now as our youngsters have happily moved on to university and work, we still continue to meet regularly to support one another, to practice and to perform. Most recently we have sung at the Spinal Injuries Annual Dinner in support of Martin Hibbert who was paralysed in the arena bombing and is now the Vice President of the

charity and at the Rock, Bury for Liv’s Trust, one of the bereaved family’s charities.

In September this year, members of the choir attended the 9/11 family memorial event in New York having been invited by an ex-Fire Chief Malcolm Dean whose brother was killed in the attack and who himself was a responder at the World Trade Centre on that fateful day. Malcom’s family hails from Manchester and he has travelled home to see them and met up with the choir whilst he was here. Choir members also met with him during a United Nations event in Nice. He currently is a senior lead for the Emergency Medical Services and lectures for the US Homeland Security on Counter Terrorism. Also on the trip was Aaron Palmer who was a serving police officer at the time of the Manchester Arena attack and is now a fire fighter who organises an annual charity football match, Manchester Remembers, in aid of the family’s charities.

The choir continues to be a great source of comfort and support for its members and over the years we have become more of a family. Our mission is to continue to spread love (not hate) through our shared interest in music and in support of those suffering trauma following acts of terrorism. M

FURTHER INFORMATION

To follow the choir, click here

ORGANISED CRIME AND CRITICAL NATIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE

Michael Kolatchev and Lina Kolesnikova investigate the threat that organised crime poses to critical national infrastructure

Last April, Karim Bouyakhrichan (alias Taxi), the “most wanted and dangerous criminal in the Netherlands”, was released by order of the Provincial Court of Málaga without the High Court activating an arrest warrant to extradite him. He’s known as one of the top capos of the Mocro mafia, a Dutch-Moroccan criminal network based in the Netherlands and Belgium, which has defied the state with threats to Princess Amalia, Prime Minister Rutte and some Belgian officials.

The Mocro mafia is one of Europe’s largest cocaine trafficking cartels, and is believed to have smuggled billions of Euros worth of drugs from South America into the EU through the Belgian and Dutch ports of Antwerp and Rotterdam over the past 15 years.

The level of infiltration and the operations of cartels at these ports appear, nowadays, to be beyond the capacity of authorities to control them. The scale and audacity of their operations pushed the mayors of Amsterdam

Let us consider any organised crime group as a sort of an enterprise, which must be profitable

and Rotterdam to warn of a “culture of crime and violence that is gradually acquiring Italian traits”. The buzzwords ‘narco state’ or ‘narco state 2.0’ filled the headlines in Dutch, Belgian and international mass media.

ORGANISED CRIME GROUPS – WE ARE IN BUSINESS TO BE SUCCESSFUL, NOT TO BE LOVED

Digital revolution, technological advances, globalisation, corruption and connection to governmental institutions opened new avenues for organised crime. Organised crime groups are always looking for opportunities to infiltrate into the legal economy (investments, public procurement etc).

We talk a lot about the risk of criminal activities to critical national infrastructure (CNI), typically, assuming threats come from outside of CNI. In recent years we have witnessed an increase in organised crime networks considering CNI as a means of use and mis-use of convenient, publicly available legitimate infrastructures to their benefit.

Sectors of CNI such as transportation (airports, ports, railway and road transport); the financial sector, telecommunications, government

facilities (e-government), and security are becoming very attractive for local and international criminal groups.

Let us consider any organised crime group as a sort of an enterprise, which must be profitable. When we identify the needs and related capabilities of such an “enterprise”, we can map it into CNI to get some examples of what such entities would want to use and, potentially, to control.

Without trying to be exhaustive, there are several things an enterprise may need.

Internal operations - making up a product or a service to sell. This might be a real product (e.g. drugs or raw materials, arms and munitions, illegal content), material appropriated from someone else (e.g. a stolen piece of art or personal data), or a service of advice or facilitation of something (e.g. money laundering, fraud-oriented call centres or dispute resolution in the style of legitimate world’ arbitration arrangements). In terms of internal operations, they may also need storage, distribution and logistics (physical/ electronic or both); personnel and HR service; finance and accounting, the ability to disburse funds for internal purposes; security, risk and compliance; and internal management and operational systems.

They may also need external operations towards customers: sales channels, agents and partners; marketing, prospecting, and, ultimately, a customer service, including communication channels and the ability to collect funds. This also includes supply E

Just like any enterprise, a criminal group would want to control its existing market

F management and communication channels, and the ability to transfer funds as payment to suppliers.

Just like any enterprise, a criminal group would want to control its existing market, while looking for opportunities to enter other market(s). If we consider illegitimate activities as underground business, then, more often, such underground business directly or, rather, indirectly, will give rise to something pushing through to the legitimate side. The “upper world” activity is usually less risky compared to the underground activity. Communication, services and money flows between underground and above ground worlds should be assured.

MAPPING ENTERPRISE NEEDS TO CNI

The next step is to see which needs of an enterprise could raise interest in particular CNI. A smaller enterprise may operate independently of critical infrastructures or almost independently. But the larger ones will not. Let us consider the production activities which would typically need energy. Small remote locations can be served by local energy production. However, as an enterprise scales, local energy production might be far less cost-

efficient than possible alternatives. Cutting into existing gas pipelines or electrical grids gives access to a significantly higher supply at a significantly lower cost, especially, if such cutting in is hidden and the energy is stolen (taken free of charge). For the best efficiency and longer operation, an enterprise will want to achieve a higher degree of resilience by, potentially, building in some sort of redundancy in their access to these critical infrastructures, on one side, while having the ability to monitor, if not control.

Personnel of an enterprise, its customers and suppliers may use proprietary, fully controlled radio systems for communication. For scaling and international operations, an enterprise could even dream of building its own satellite communication platform, but that is going to be expensive and hardly costefficient, and, surely, a degree of resilience of such infrastructure will be limited. Here again, telecommunications infrastructure of the legitimate world brings a benefit of scale and the existing inter-connectivity across cities, countries and continents, giving the ability to reach both suppliers and customers wherever they need to. An enterprise would build its own communication overlay or, and it happens all the time, misuse an existing legitimate overlay

for its purposes (e.g. web and dark web, social networks and messengers). Just like in the case of energy infrastructures, an enterprise will look for possibilities to control or, at least, monitor and play out investigations or activities which might disrupt their communications. An interesting example would be fraud-oriented call centres that might appear legitimate businesses in their home countries as they do not commit crime against their own citizens. Manipulating calling numbers brings a benefit of hiding the cross-country nature of calls. Victims then perceive attackers as calling locally, while they are not. Latency in identifying and reaching the source through two often significantly different legal systems make catching a calling fraudster very lengthy and costly process for any authority. There could be a political reluctance of such investigations etc. Thus, many such operations keep operating as dismantling them is too difficult, for as long as there is no close cooperation between two countries.

Beyond producing something and communicating, an enterprise will need to pay its suppliers and will need to get paid by its clients. Carrying a huge bulk of cash might still be possible, but this has serious costs and risks attached. Using modern financial infrastructures brings unprecedented advantages, with even

Telecommunications infrastructure of the legitimate world brings a benefit of scale and the existing inter-connectivity across cities

instant transfer available in many countries, as well as simple international transfers. Keeping in mind that an enterprise usually needs funds in the legitimate world as well, the money launderers come in handy, facilitating untraceable or almost untraceable transfers from the underworld to the upper world, and vice versa.

UNODC estimates between two and 5 per cent of the global GDP is laundered each year. That’s between EUR 715 billion and 1.87 trillion. Risk and compliance requirements keep growing. Consequently, money launderers need more insight into financial infrastructures and associated legal disclosure and/or nondisclosure regimes to keep making money from money. One of the particularities is the risk and fraud monitoring capabilities. There is an evergrowing number of electronic payments, E

UNODC estimates between two and 5 per cent of the global GDP is laundered each year

F faster and immediate payments, in particular, there is an important dilemma of “block a payment and then investigate” versus “allow a payment and then investigate”. One can expect that monitoring policies will shift more to blocking decisions, as with the proliferation of instant payments, even one second after the initial payment could be too late to remediate, funds will already be transferred somewhere else. Like in many other domains, shrinking time windows for risk decisions demand more and more automation of such decisions. Such automation runs a serious risk and, once there, infrastructure operators will have no other means to react. That means such automation cannot be switched off anymore even if found faulty, as there might be no adequate compensatory mechanisms in place. Consequently, automation might be manipulated and mis-used to achieve specific objectives of those manipulating.

In the modern digitalised world, more and more data is collected in centralised databases, for example, government databases and the ones of large financial and infrastructural institutions. Such huge databases really are attractive targets as data is the new oil. Apart from selling data itself, access to it can bring

improvements in various people and activities monitoring, for example, segmenting attack targets (victims) or closing on potential clients.

Apart from individual infrastructures, enterprises might make use of combining their access to several infrastructures at once. For example, e-government infrastructures often come with the ability to make instant electronic deals like selling a house or taking credit.

Hack into e-government infrastructure and an enterprise could sell multiple houses or take out loans without the need to spend time and effort on tricking owners into such deals.

Another example would be stealing from someone’s account. In more advanced countries, financial institutions would notify their clients of any operations on their accounts by sending an SMS or a push notification to a mobile app. Intercepting, diverting or somehow manipulating such messages on telecommunications or other infrastructures, can assure a longer period for criminals achieving their objectives like emptying out a bank account.

A similar situation with breaking into information technology systems may permit working around customer authentication, which often relies on one-time access codes being

Hack into e-government infrastructure and an enterprise could sell multiple houses or take out loans

pushed through as SMS, mobile app notification or an email, over telecommunication networks.

Organised crime groups have long focused on speeding up the transportation (logistics) of people, drugs and other illicit goods by using ships, containers or aircrafts and have been able to transport even larger amounts across the globe. There are determinants other than just passenger and trade volume, such as low risk of interdiction, shifts in criminal markets and the specific geolocation of transporatation hubs and nodes that enable criminal actors to exploit the “transportation business”.

Ports are part of national and international critical infrastructure. Some of them are enormous entities and, as they have restricted access, present parts of cities which are fertile ground for their “own” hidden activities.

But we have to consider that some ports ARE places of crime with a high level of infiltration by organised crime groups. Even more – ports have become one of the most valuable parts of complicated criminal schemes with billions at stake. Europe’s biggest ports – Antwerp, Rotterdam, Hamburg and Le Havre have become the El Dorado for drugs traffickers and contrabandists and, consequently, have contributed to the skyrocketing increase of drugs consumption, drugs-related crimes and urban violence in Europe.

(ALMOST) ANY GOOD INFRASTRUCTURE IS ATTRACTIVE

In the past, criminal enterprises used to create their own infrastructures to be independent from the legitimate world. Nowadays, adequate service offerings are very costly and timeconsuming to achieve, necessary infrastructures could be too large to be hidden. Therefore, criminals do not have an interest anymore in creating their own critical infrastructures. Instead, those legitimate critical (and noncritical) infrastructures which bring modern services, whatever the domain is, will be used more and more by criminals, leading to criminals needing a foot in such infrastructure, having influence, building a purposefully tailored overlay and even controlling position. M

ENSURING PUBLIC SECTOR SAFETY IN THE DIGITAL AGE

Chris Dimitriadis, chief global strategy officer at ISACA discusses some of the current cyber threats and what is being done about them

Earlier this year, several hospitals across London were subjected to a sophisticated cyberattack that had devastating consequences for patients. With more than 1,000 planned operations and over 3,000 outpatient appointments postponed, the attack caused huge disruption for the NHS in the capital. Cyberattacks are undeniably on the rise. In the UK alone, as many as half of all businesses report having suffered a cybersecurity breach or attack in the last twelve months.

But they are also becoming increasingly sophisticated. Hackers are moving at pace with technology and honing their skills to inflict maximum damage on their victims. Ransomware attacks remain the most acute type of cyber threat facing most UK organisations. And these are becoming increasingly more sophisticated.

Typically, organisations with complex supply chains face far greater risk. If one element of that chain becomes compromised, the whole organisation can be brought down. This means that when it comes to cyberattacks, nothing and no one is off limits, including public sector institutions such as the NHS and the Ministry of Defence.

So, how can organisations in the public sector better protect themselves against the threat of impending cyberattacks?

REGULATION IS BEING IMPLEMENTED

At the State Opening of Parliament in July, King Charles III announced the new Labour government’s plans. One of these plans was the Cyber Security and Resilience Bill, something that has been welcomed with open arms by the technology and cybersecurity industry.

A significant way that the bill is set to protect public sector organisations is by proposing to enforce universal standards across supply chains. This will mean that every single company within the supply chain of a service such as the NHS, for example, will be required to comply with a certain standard of cybersecurity protection.

Of course, it’s a positive step in the right direction, as bad actors can capitalise on any small weak link in a supply chain and launch an attack. The next move will be for this Bill to be followed through, introduced and enforced by the new government sooner rather than later to avoid further damage in the meantime. But regulation alone isn’t the only answer.

In order to be successful and achieve the best level of protection, businesses need to have trained professionals in place

THERE’S STRENGTH IN NUMBERS

While implementing and enforcing regulation is vital when looking to protect organisations – both public and private – from succumbing to cybercrime, it’s not a quick fix solution on its own. In order to be successful and achieve the best level of protection, businesses need to have trained professionals in place. By employing staff with the right skills in the right places, they can not only diligently monitor for and implement any measures needed to comply with such regulation but can also be on the front foot, proactively monitoring for any warning signs or potential threats.

It is essential that upskilling and training for staff is available and provided at any company, big or small. The World Economic Forum reports that there is a global shortage of nearly four million cyber professionals. That number is vast, and is unfortunately growing. This cannot continue in a digital world where cyberattacks are on the rise.

According to research that we at ISACA carried out amongst our membership in Europe in 2023, a shocking 62 per cent of respondents reported that their cybersecurity team was understaffed. E

62 per cent of respondents reported that their cybersecurity team was understaffed

F The new UK government has proposed the introduction of Skills England, a new entity designed to fight the broader skills shortage issue that the country is facing by working to assess where current and future skills demand lies. The next step will be for digital skills to become a focus of that body, with a view to working on closing the skills gap.

Schemes like Skills England will help to both fill vital positions to make organisations more secure and create a more diverse workforce. By providing a range of opportunities and routes for those looking to enter the cybersecurity industry, workplaces will attract a variety of people from different backgrounds, fostering a team that has diverse thought processes and approaches to problem solving.

This is valuable, as a fully rounded cybersecurity team needs people with both technical and soft skills – someone that can think like a hacker and remain one step ahead is just as important as someone with excellent communication skills who can simplify the intricacies of cybersecurity to the board. And if organisations can widen their approach by inviting people to interview that might not yet have the exact qualifications needed, but have the right attitude, aptitude and are willing to learn, they will see more applicants and more talent keen to sign up.

TIME FOR CHANGE

Societies often suffer from a feeling of inertia. People follow in the employment footsteps

of their ancestors, take static careers advice from their school or university or simply “find themselves” in a job. Typically, we lack dynamism and forethought when it comes to starting out on the career ladder. That needs to change.

From a young age, people need to be taught that there are career options beyond the ‘obvious’, including exciting, diverse job opportunities and career paths in the world of cybersecurity. Figures suggest that around 60 per cent of today’s school children will enter a career that hasn’t been thought of yet, which is no surprise with emerging technologies evolving at a rate of knots.

With that in mind, it’s important that the information available to young people is the most up to date, whether that’s by a change in curriculum, or by professionals heading into schools to talk to students about what their future could look like. Not only do young people need to be made aware of the career options open to them, but they also need to be told that they don’t need to be limited to taking specific technical qualifications to pursue a certain career.

When it comes to cybersecurity and AI, there’s a wider need to upskill people from the ground up. The school curriculum should be evolving now to cover the basics of AI technology, its applications and ethical use cases so that the next generation of leaders grows up steeped in knowledge of the future technologies, and resultant job opportunities.

When it comes to cybersecurity and AI, there’s a wider need to upskill people from the ground up

KEEPING UP WITH THE LATEST TECHNOLOGIES

While AI can – and will – no doubt achieve powerful things, with the potential to revolutionise services and improve menial workloads across industries, it does pose a threat. And public sector organisations are just as vulnerable here as anybody else. It’s imperative that users of AI are aware and mindful of the risks associated. Education and training around emerging technologies such as AI is a non-negotiable if organisations want to feel secure and protected. Regular training is the remedy for this. And while any cyber and IT teams should be offered such training as an immediate priority, it should be rolled out to the wider workplace, particularly if staff are regularly coming into contact with AI. Although they are the experts, the onus shouldn’t solely be on the cybersecurity or IT team, and staff throughout the organisation should at least be familiar with the basics and how these are set to change.

Yet research carried out by ISACA amongst our European membership earlier this year revealed that 40 per cent of organisations offered no AI training to staff and a further 30 per cent only offered it to those working in tech-related positions.

Legislation and guidance on AI will of course be welcomed alongside this. AI tools are informed by data, and so this data needs to be regulated and have the adequate protections in place. While being educated and having training on AI is imperative, users need to be secure in the knowledge that they are using a regulated and safe service and feel empowered to embrace newer technologies.

Ultimately, public sector organisations must make sure that they are taking the same precautions as private businesses. They are unfortunately just as vulnerable, and in a world full of increasing geopolitical tensions and state-sponsored attacks, national services with complex supply chains that are relied upon by large quantities of people are a haven for attackers on a destructive mission. A combination of legislation, compliance, and training will help businesses and sectors across industries to become more trusted and secure. M

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