To ensure public safety against the threat of terrorism Dyfed-Powys Police – in conjunction with the National Counter Terrorism Security Office (NaCTSO) – presented a series of seminars to inform and educate the local business community.
Project Argus is an initiative devised by NaCTSO and hosted a wide range of organisations from local companies to nationals, based in the area. It took place at the Peterstone Court Hotel in Brecon and included an open address from Dyfed-Powys Police Chief Constable Ian Arundale.
Although there is no known or current threat from terrorism or extremism in Powys, it’s important that members of all the community work in partnership with the authorities to help prevent, prepare, pursue those involved, and ultimately, protect our citizens.
The event is a multi-media terrorist attack simulation that allows attendees to make decisions about what you, your staff and your business need to do in helping to prevent and survive a terrorist attack.
In addition to discussing in syndicates the dilemmas posed in the scenarios, the attendees were also treated to an expert panel – made up of senior officers from the Police, Powys County Council and Mid-Wales Fire and Rescue Service – who answered questions and provided solutions to the scenarios.
The interactive seminar also provided realism when a controlled pyrotechnic was activated during a DVD sequence to demonstrate how people react when unprepared and highlight its terrifying impact.
Powys Counter Terrorism Advisor Eric Bailey said: “The threat to the UK from terrorism is real and present, and we all have a role to play in helping to prevent it. Communities are key to this process, and business communities in Powys can play a vital role in assisting the Police to meet this threat effectively. We believe that developing and maintaining strong links with other organisations is a vital part of the Unit’s work, which allows for the identification of emerging needs and requirements in this area.
“And to help ensure we share information effectively and efficiently, the four Welsh Police Forces act in unison within the Wales Extremism and Counter Terrorism Unit (WECTU). This is a critical cross-force unit, which aims to reduce the risk to our citizens in Wales and its interests overseas from international terrorism.”
