Armed officers fight terror threat

Operation Armada Fleet will involve a series of roadblocks across the region's main roads in the run-up to Christmas.

It is part of a nationwide campaign against terrorism.

Detective chief inspector Steve Pepper said Friday's campaign launch coincided with the first anniversary of the attempted bomb attack in Birmingham city centre.

Terrorism

"This operation is just one of many counter terrorist activities that are taking place behind the scenes," he said.

"Although there is no specific intelligence suggesting a threat to the region, we remain vigilant and are determined that our officers maintain a very visible presence on the street."

The operation involves 60 officers, including traffic police and customs and excise officials.

Officers will use powers under the Terrorism Act 2000, which allows them to search people and vehicles for any article that could be used for terrorist purposes.

"We hope that people will recognise the value of operations like this and are reassured that we are acting to protect their safety," added DCI Pepper.

"We also hope people will react in their normal patient and reasonable manner if they are delayed as a result of the operation."