An increased terror threat finds British officials taking measures not previously seen around the country: ITV.com reports travelers will see armed police officers on national trains for the first time.
The move comes after a terrorist attack during the moments following an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester on Monday, May 22. 59 people were injured along with 22 fatalities during the incident.
The report notes that armed officers have had a public presence throughout the London Underground since December, but the recent announcement is a first for trains outside the capital.
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The British Transport Police tweeted on May 25: "From today, you may see our specialist firearms officers on trains across the network."
Chief Constable Paul Crowther from British Transport Police explained the move via a BTP release: "Since the devastating events in Manchester on Monday evening, our force has radically increased the presence of our officers nationwide. By having firearms officers on board trains we're ensuring that trains remain as safe as possible for passengers. Our patrols will be highly visible and passengers should feel comforted by their presence. Please do speak to them if you have any concerns at all."
Crowther explained that the move in no way insinuates any acknowledged threat: "This is part of our national mobilization plan to deal with the current and ongoing threat. It is important to note that we do not have any specific intelligence in relation to train services but are taking this action to ensure we can protect and reassure the public."
Earlier this week, Prime Minister Theresa May increased the terror threat level to critical, representing the highest it has been at in a decade. A critical threat level means officials believe that another attack could be 'imminent.' Police officials have since arrested eight individuals allegedly tied to the bombing.
When it comes to travel, some believe recent events will do little to deter Americans considering a trip to the region.
Greg Antonelle, managing director of Mickey Travel, LLC, recently told TravelPulse's Lisa Iannucci: "There is no fear to travel to England, Europe or anywhere else for that matter. Sadly, we live in a world where this tragedy can occur anywhere. If it wasn't in Manchester, it could have been in New York City, Rome or Barcelona. If it didn't happen at a concert, it could have happened at a soccer match, movie premiere or at a political rally.
"Nobody we communicated with had any ideas of canceling their trip, and the prevailing thoughts were that they would be vigilant and move forward with excitement for their vacations."
Crowther offered some advice for travelers taking the train throughout the UK: "I want to take this opportunity to remind everyone to stay calm, be vigilant, and if you spot anything at all which gives you cause for concern, let us know. In light of the dreadful events over these last few days, and the increase to the national threat level, nothing should be considered too trivial to report and any information - regardless of whether you feel it is significant or not - may be important to all of us."
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As was the case in the days following the Parliament attack during March, the country continues to move forward with great determination and strength.
Crowther echoes that sentiment: "The cowardly acts of terrorists will never weaken our resolve. We will continue to work with police forces nationally to ensure that the traveling public remain safe and reassured."
Astounding times often garner remarkable measures. While the UK moves through another tragedy, it will have the aid of its officers who vigilantly patrol its train system.
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