Counter Terrorism SO OPS 6 PDF
Document Details
2016
Insp L. Hadjichristodoulou
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Summary
This document details counter-terrorism procedures, specifically focusing on stop and search powers for police officers. It outlines the relevant legislation, code of practice, briefings, and response levels in case of a terrorism incident.
Full Transcript
**COUNTER TERRORISM** **TABLE OF DOCUMENT DETAILS** Title -------------------------------- -- Reference No Relevant Department / Group Ownership Document author Approved by...
**COUNTER TERRORISM** **TABLE OF DOCUMENT DETAILS** Title -------------------------------- -- Reference No Relevant Department / Group Ownership Document author Approved by Approval Date Implementation Date To be Reviewed Date Last Revised Date Quality Assured By Protective Marking Linked to other Standing Order Relevant Legislation Pages (including this page) **TABLE OF CONTENTS** [Introduction](#S1) [Page 0](#S1)3 [Section 1](#S1) ---------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- ------------------- [Code Of Practice](#s2) [Page 03](#s2) [Section 2](#s2) [Scope of Code](#s3) [Page 04](#s3) [Section 3](#s3) [Definition of Terrorism](#S4) [Page 05](#S4) [Section 4](#S4) [Stop and Search](#S5) [Page 05](#S5) [Section 5](#S5) [SBAPs Application](#S6) [Page 06](#S6) [Section 6](#S6) [Briefing and Supervision](#S7) [Page 0](#S7)7 [Section 7](#S7) I[ntelligence Handling](#S6) [Page 0](#S6)7 [Section 8](#S8) [Response Levels](#S9) [Page 07](#S9) [Section 9](#S9) [Priority/ Iconic sites](#A1) [Page 11](#A1) [Appendix 1](#A1) [Alternative Access routes to SBA Police stations:](#A2) [Page 1](#A2)2 [Appendix 2](#A2) [VCPs](#A3) [Page 1](#A3)3 [Appendix 3](#A3) **SBA POLICE** **COUNTER TERRORISM AND RESPONSE LEVELS** []{#S1.anchor}**1. Introduction** 1. **The aim of this Standing Order is to give guidance to Police Officers when exercising power of 'stop & search' relating suspicion of 'Terrorism' as described within the Counter Terrorism Ordinance of 2016, sections 24, 25, and 26.** 2. **Sections 24 & 25 of the Counter Terrorism Ordinance of 2016 provide for the appropriate powers to stop, detain and search persons and vehicles when a police officer reasonably suspects that such person is involved in terrorism or that a vehicle is being used for the purposes of terrorism.** 3. **Section 26 of the Ordinance provides that a police officer in uniform may stop and search persons and vehicles without the element of 'reasonable suspicion' being susupected, [ONLY] when an authorisation is given by the Chief Constable in relation to a specified area or place. Such authorisation may be given if the Chief constable reasonably suspects that an act of terrorism will take place and reasonably considers that the authorisation is necessary to prevent such an act.** 4. **According to the provisions of the [Counter Terrorism Ordinance 12 of 2016, a 'Code of Practice'](http://www.sbaadministration.org/home/legislation/01_02_09_06_PIs/01_02_09_06_57_PI_2016/20160614_PI-07_G1810.pdf) Order was introduced by the Administrator and was published with Public Instrument 7 of 2016. The Code provides a very clear and detailed description of the practices to be followed if these police powers are applied during an incident involving any aspect of terrorism.** 5. **All members of the Force must become fully aware of the contents of the relevant Ordinance, the Code of Practice and related Standing Orders like Op 2 (Civil Emergency), OP 3 (Incident Control Vehicle), S2 (Security SBAP Dkl) S2A (Security SBAP Aki), S5 (Evacuation Procedure - SBAP Station Aki), S5A (Evacuation Procedure- SBAP Station Dkl)** 6. **Despite the serious nature of these potentiality dangerous incidents, the guidelines provided in this order will not 'frame' potential police action relating to terrorism incidents. Good common-sense, flexibility and effective 'communication' must prevail, in line with the rule of law.** **2.** []{#s2.anchor}**Code of Practice** 2.1 This Code is prepared by the Administrator under section 27 of the Counter-Terrorism Ordinance 2016 and issued under section 28. It came into force on 1 July 2016 in accordance with the Counterterrorism (Code of Practice) Order 2016. The purpose of this Code is as follows. - It sets out the basic principles for the use of the power of authorisation and the powers of police officers under sections 24 (Search of Persons), 25 (Search of Vehicles), 26 (Search Authorised by Chief Constable) and the Schedule to the Counter-Terrorism Ordinance 2016. - It promotes the fundamental principles to be observed by the police to preserve the effectiveness of the use of police powers to stop and search and maintain public confidence. If these fundamental principles are not observed, public confidence in the use of these powers to stop and search may be affected. Failure to use the powers in the proper manner also reduces their effectiveness. - It ensures that the intrusion on the liberty of the person stopped and searched is as limited as possible and clarifies that detention for the purposes of a search should take place at or near the location of the stop and last only as long as necessary. - It sets out that those using the powers may be required to justify the use of such powers, in relation to both individual searches and the overall pattern of their activity to their supervisors or in court. It also sets out that any misuse of the powers is likely to be harmful to counterterrorism policing and lead to mistrust of the police. The misuse of these powers can lead to disciplinary action against Police. Officers must also be able to justify their actions to the member of the public being searched. Proportionate use of the powers can contribute towards the primary purpose of counterterrorism which is ensuring the safety of the public. - It specifies that section 26 powers (Stop & Search with Chief Constable's Authorisation) should be authorised only where other powers or measures are insufficient to deal with the threat and, even where authorised, officers should still consider whether section 26 powers are the most appropriate to use. - It also specifies that officers must not search a person, even if they have given consent, where no power to search is applicable. Even where a person is prepared to submit to a search voluntarily, the person must not be searched unless the necessary legal power exists, and the search must be in accordance with the relevant power and the provisions of this Code. **3.** []{#s3.anchor}**Scope of Code** 3.1 This Code relates to the: - Exercise of stop and search powers conferred by sections 24 and 25 of the Counter-Terrorism Ordinance 2016. - Authorisation and exercise of powers to stop and search in specified areas or places at specified times contained in section 26 of the Counter-Terrorism Ordinance 2016. 3.2 The Chief Constable has a duty to consider this Code when discharging a function to which this Code relates to. This Code must be followed unless there is good reason not to do so, in which case the decision not to follow this Code should be recorded in writing. 3.3 This Code must be readily available at all police stations for consultation by police officers, police staff, detained persons, and members of the public. 3.4 References in the Code to the information required in an authorisation refer to a written authorisation or written confirmation of an oral authorisation. **4.**[]{#S4.anchor} **Definition of Terrorism** 'Terrorism' in the Ordinance means the use or threat of action where the action used or threatened, - involves serious violence against a person or serious damage to property. - endangers a person's life, other than that of the person committing the action. - creates a serious risk to the health or safety of the public or a section of the public; or - is designed seriously to interfere with or seriously to disrupt an electronic system. And the use or threat is designed to: - influence the government or an international governmental organisation, or intimidate the public or a section of the public; and - is made for the purpose of advancing a political, religious, racial, or ideological cause. **5.** []{#S5.anchor}**Stop & Search** 5.1 A 'stop and search booklet' (SBAP Form CT 1) has been prepared according to the provisions of the Code of Practice and is utilised for the recording of relevant information during [every search] relating to any form of 'Terrorism'. 5.2 It must be emphasised that the Booklet [will only] be completed when [a search] relating to terrorism (person and / or vehicle), has been conducted, either under the provisions of sections 24, 25 and / or 26. If the circumstances do not permit such records to be made at the time, this should be done as soon as practicable after the search. The officer dealing must ensure that the person(s) searched are asked if they want a copy of the record and if they do, they must be given the relevant copy immediately. (Carbonated / Perforated copy for person searched). For persons arrested, the practice will apply at the police station and in line with the Custody Record Policy. 5.3 The booklet has been designed to enable the recording of relevant information according to the provisions of the law which may be given to people searched if they request so. It is highly important to ensure that the following information is understood and recorded properly. - [Reason of the Search]: - Briefly but informatively explain the reason for suspecting person / vehicle. In the case of Section 26, the reason why a particular person / vehicle was selected. - [Object of the Search]: - What we are looking for. - [Police Powers]: - Provisions under which we search, section 24, 25 or 26 and / or 'Criminal Procedure'. 5.4 Relevant 'Aide Memoire' outlining the stop and search powers of the police under the Ordinance is included in the Booklet. 5.5 The provisions of the Criminal Procedure Ordinance 2016 apply in relation to searching premises. **6.** []{#S6.anchor}**SBAPS Application** 6.1 In the event of an incident relating to 'Terrorism' is initiated, a 'Task' will be issued from the Intelligence Unit (OIU) in consultation with the Senior Command Team, to provide officers with all the necessary information and instructions about the nature of the incident and the action to be taken. This will also apply as a practice, if an 'Authorisation' relating to section 26, is given by the Chief Constable. The task must be very clear with specific parameters and instructions as to the nature of the incident and the relevant feedback which will be expected from the officers. 6.2 A SBAPs Application was introduced under the name 'Terrorism' which will accommodate officer's 'replies to task'. Routine 'information reports' should also be forwarded through the specific field. 3. The template form required for the purpose of [Counter Terrorism Ordinance of 2016, section 26](https://www.sbaadministration.org/home/legislation/01_02_09_05_ORDINANCES/01_02_09_05_57_ORD_2016/20160614_ORD-12_G1810.pdf) which will be completed by the Chief or Deputy Chief Constable, is included in the SBA Police Intranet Police Forms under 'Miscellaneous' -- 'Search Forms'. 7. []{#S7.anchor}**Briefings and Supervision.** 7.1 The stop and search powers under section 26 of the Counter Terrorism Ordinance 2016, should be used by officers who have been briefed about the incident and on the details included in the Authorisation issued by the Chief Constable. 7.2 Depending on the seriousness and extent of the incident, the MIR (Major Incident Room) initiation should be considered as contingency. In any other case relevant Supervisor(s) should be appointed to lead such cases accordingly. **8.** []{#S8.anchor}**Intelligence Handling** 8.1 Any information which relates to any aspect of terrorism, independent as to the origin / source of the information, will have to go through the proper 'Intelligence Channels'. (Information Report / 3x5x2). The SMT must be made aware as soon as possible so that the proper evaluation of the data is made, in consultation with other external agencies. 8.2 The Divisional Intelligence Units will be responsible to ensure that their systems provide maximum efficiency and effectiveness regarding the data storage and retrieval. Particular attention must be given to data being recorded during authorisation under section 26, where a 'summary of the use of Section 26 authorisation' form must be completed. This form can be found in the SBA Police Intranet 'Police Forms', under 'Miscellaneous -- Search Forms'. **9.** []{#S9.anchor}**Response Levels** 9.1 The MOD utilises three Response Levels to convey warnings of possible terrorist activity and the measures to be taken on receipt of such warnings. The action to be taken by the SBA Police for each level is described below: The Response Levels are as follows: **NORMAL**: Routine baseline protective security measures, appropriate to the establishment, should be in place to protect staff/visitors/buildings. Should the threat rise consideration should be given to deploying additional measures that are appropriate at each location and to the nature of the threat. **HEIGHTENED**: This Level recommends consideration of additional protective security countermeasures above NORMAL to address the threat, and to reflect specific vulnerabilities and the degree of acceptable risk. Measures deployed should be sustainable indefinitely; they may also be applied as a precautionary measure for a specific period. **EXCEPTIONAL**: This Level requires consideration and implementation of maximum protective security measures to minimise vulnerabilities and risk. Extra measures implemented are likely to be sustainable for a limited period only. 9.2 CBF's Lines of Operation dictate that key facilities, BFC and SBAA personnel, their dependants and other designated personnel are secured and protected. 9.3 The Key Facilities have been identified as Priority One Assets being essential to the effective operation of the Bases and iconic vulnerable sites. [(Appendix 1)](#A1) 9.4 The SBA Police action in respect of each Response Level may be categorised as either internal, within Police establishments or external in the external community where SBA Police will respond and deal with incidents possibly with the assistance of CJPU / Military services. 9.5 The SBA Police Command Structure as defined in the Civil Emergency Plan, Gold, Silver and Bronze will be used. 9.6 In the event of simultaneous orchestrated terrorist activity at multiple locations, the deployment of resources will be dictated by the Gold Commander. [Under **Normal Response Level** conditions: ] **Internal** Measures to be taken are: - To carry out briefings to remind all personnel of the need for continuous awareness and extra vigilance. - To ensure all emergency response and Major Incident equipment is well maintained. - To conduct Station evacuation procedures relative to incidents of fire or bomb alerts. - CCTV, communication, alarm, and station perimeter security systems to be maintained and operational. **External** measures to be taken are: - Regular patrols to include sensitive Priority One sites. - Periodic joint patrols with CJPU / military personnel. - High visibility patrols to act as both deterrent and community reassurance tools. - Public reassurance patrols targeted to encapsulate the elements of security, intelligence, crime prevention and community engagement with a view to heighten the influx of intelligence reports and maintain tranquillity in our Areas. - Develop contingency planning and training exercises with key stakeholders. [Under **Heightened Response Level** conditions in **ADDITION** to those listed above]: **Internal** Measures to be taken are: - Brief all personnel to the change of the Response Level. - Review all routine security measures and physically inspect station perimeters. - All vehicles to be parked outside a 25 meter radius of buildings. - All external lighting to be lit at night. - Conduct hourly station perimeter patrols. - Station gates to be closed and monitored. - Consider the initiation of an Incident Report Book. **External** measures to be taken are: - Consider alerting community leaders and key influential people. - Frequent irregular/unpredictable patrols to target sensitive Priority One and iconic vulnerable sites. - Increase security patrol numbers. - Frequent joint patrols with CJPU / military personnel targeting sensitive Priority One and / or Iconic Vulnerable sites. - Heightened awareness aiming at specific and relevant intelligence gathering. - Monitor visitors to Police stations and SBAA Courts whenever in sitting. [Under **Exceptional Response Level** conditions in **ADDITION** to those listed above: ] **Internal** Measures to be taken are: - Brief / update all personnel to the change of the Response Level. - Initiate activation of Gold/Silver/Bronze command structure for both internal and external police and/or security operations. - Constant staffing of stations main gate. - Access to the Police stations and compound to non-operational visitors only when supervised. All people and their vehicles entering stations to be searched. - Augmentation from UK Police counter-terrorism specialists to be considered. - Consider military support under the principle of Military Aid to the SBAA (MASBAA) **External** measures to be taken are: - Consider providing a non-sensitive briefing to community leaders and key stakeholders. - Reduce number of patrols to essential, respond on demand only. - Implement alternative access routes to Police stations.[(Appendix 2)](#A2) - Identify (Fixed-Permanent/Temporary) Vehicle Check Points (VCPs) and consider setting them up for vehicle 'Stop -- Checks' on arterial routes depending on the nature and location of the incident and/or within vicinity of Priority One and Iconic Vulnerable sites. [(Appendix 1)](#A1) - Consider deployment of Armed Firearms Officers at VCPs in liaison with armed CJPU / military support, consider implementing [S.O OPS 3 Operation Argos](https://modgovuk.sharepoint.com/:w:/r/teams/25468/STANDING%20ORDERS%202023/Standing%20Orders%202023%20onward/OPERATIONS/OPS%203.docx?d=we03c64f236c947d4b24a996c5c6cab58&csf=1&web=1&e=y226t5) or [S.O OPS 1 Operation Cerberus.](https://modgovuk.sharepoint.com/:w:/r/teams/25468/STANDING%20ORDERS%202023/Standing%20Orders%202023%20onward/OPERATIONS/OPS%201.docx?d=w5ca60aef76e54a26a67fe0a3397d9845&csf=1&web=1&e=vlAwFw) - Heighten Marine Unit activity to enhance operational capability in territorial waters. - Consider drone and helicopter reconnaissance of sensitive sites and routes. 9.7 In addition to the above SBA Police officers should also be familiarised with the following relevant Orders & Documents: - [SBA Police Civil Emergency Plan (Standing Order OPS 11)](https://modgovuk.sharepoint.com/:w:/r/teams/25468/STANDING%20ORDERS%202023/Standing%20Orders%202023/OPERATIONS/OPS%2011.docx?d=wc11c3f7dec1649c49f68bedae9ea373f&csf=1&web=1&e=4sGH6Z) - **[Memorandum of Understanding Between the SBA Police and CJPU and the Jurisdictional Guidelines](file://dhk1/rootfs/KritikouL966/Group/EUNSBAPOLICE/SBA-POLICE_INTRANET/Orders,%20Policies%20and%20Contingency%20Plans/Standing%20Orders/Criminal%20Investigation/SO%20C1%20Appendix%2012.pdf)** - Police Station Evacuation Procedures ([S.O OPS 27](https://modgovuk.sharepoint.com/:w:/r/teams/25468/STANDING%20ORDERS%202023/Standing%20Orders%202023/OPERATIONS/OPS%2027.docx?d=wab738298da2b4e99817b64938dba9c5d&csf=1&web=1&e=4h3AGm) and [S.O OPS 28](https://modgovuk.sharepoint.com/:w:/r/teams/25468/STANDING%20ORDERS%202023/Standing%20Orders%202023/OPERATIONS/OPS%2028.docx?d=w51c9b0941a6345c696b9d97ef325e8b1&csf=1&web=1&e=Vg5ttw) - SBA Police Divisional Security Standing Order ([S.O OPS 25](https://modgovuk.sharepoint.com/:w:/r/teams/25468/STANDING%20ORDERS%202023/Standing%20Orders%202023%20onward/OPERATIONS/OPS%2025.docx?d=w194c1a05f913494fafb543d7b175fc3f&csf=1&web=1&e=8SozvU)) []{#A1.anchor} **Appendix 1** **Priority One** Sites: - RAF Akrotiri - 12 SU Salt Lake -- Pluto Aerial site Akrotiri - Episkopi Camp - Symboulas Dam - Episkopi - South/North Paramali housing estates - Bloodhound Camp - Episkopi - Dhekelia Garrison - Joint Service Signal Unit (JSSU) - Ayios Nikolaos **Iconic vulnerable** sites, within the SBAs which are outside the wire and may be targeted by terrorists; - All SBA Police stations and HM Prisons at Dhekelia - Curium Amphitheatre/beach -- Episkopi - Limassol-Paphos motorway tunnels - Lady's Mile beach - Akrotiri - CESSAC beach - Dhekelia - Achna Forest football stadium -- Dhekelia - Both SBAA Courts and Area Offices of Akrotiri and Dhekelia - The bars and restaurants along Akrotiri strip, Dhekelia and Ay-Nikolaos and other premises that are known to be regularly frequented by British Service and SBAA personnel - Military housing estates and married quarters - Service Schools in Episkopi, Akrotiri, Dhekelia and AY-Nikolaos and any other vulnerable schools - The ESBA and WSBA water reservoirs - The Pergamos and Strovilia crossing points - Electricity Authority Cyprus, (EAC) Power station, Dhekelia - All Petrol and refuelling stations within ESBA and WSBA []{#A2.anchor}**Appendix 2** Alternative Access routes to SBA Police stations: **Akrotiri Police Station** 1\. North Approach via Erimi / Kolossi Villages. 2\. South Approach through Fassouri Plantation. 3\. East Approach via M1. 4\. West Approach via M1. **Dhekelia Police Station** 1\. North Approach via Pyla-Pergamos road 2\. South Approach via Waterloo road south 3\. East Approach Larnaca-Famagusta road from Famagusta direction 4\. West Approach Larnaca-Famagusta road from Larnaca direction