As people start to get out and about more it is clear that Criminals and Terrorist organisations may be looking to capitalise on this transition out of lockdown
Whilst Covid-19 is and will remain a real issue for many months there are other prevalent threats and we should not ignore them; it is important that we continue to take a blended and holistic approach to risk management.
On the 19th June the Government announced the reduction of the Coronavirus alert level from 4 to 3. This may result in further easing of restrictions over the coming weeks, and for some people to return to their workplace. During the ‘lockdown’ as it is commonly referred, UK policing reported a general 30% decrease in crime. It is expected that crime rates will gradually return to more normal levels as the lockdown measures ease.
As crime rates increase, it may be a challenge for security and policing teams to respond effectively as resources are stretched and crime and terrorist groups look to capitalise on recent unrest due to Global protests and organisations remaining focused on their individual response to COVID-19.
The terrorist incident in Reading over the weekend has also highlighted, once again, that terrorists have the desire and capability to conduct acts of terror, therefore, there is a need to remain vigilant to potential hostile reconnaissance that can be a lead up to a terrorist attack.