A joint exercise involving the London Metropolitan Police and the British Royal Marines ahead of the Olympics has been hailed as a success by those responsible for Games security.
Officers from the Force's Marine Unit and military personnel rehearsed the skills and drills they will need to operate together in a week long package of manoeuvres.
The exercise focused on the River Thames, which will form an outer ring of security during the Games, and made use of assets including rigid boats and air support.
Assistant Commisioner Chris Allison, the National Olympic Security Co-ordinator, was satisfied at the results. He added: "There is no specific threat from the River but we would be failing in our duty if we did not consider this for Games time."
"All of the exercising is to get people to understand their roles and responsibilities – we need to know how we would work with those who would come and assist us if we have to deal with something beyond our capability and capacity.
AC Allison pointed out that the exercises not only focused on the practical capabilities of assets at his disposal during the Olympics, but also rules of engagement.
He said: "This is the wet-way into London and we need to make sure that we have tactics we can use on the River, many of which have been developed by the police."
The exercise saw a number of scenarios, ranging from a compliant stop to the use of armed officers boarding a moving vessel at speed, played out. Assets including police river launches plus rigid boats and landing craft from the Royal Marines were used along with a Royal Navy Lynx helicopter.
AC Allison said that the security of the Olympics remains the responsibility of the police, but that there will be niche military assets in support of that operation.
He concluded: "I know police officers will do their level best to ensure the Games pass off safely and securely. They will be the professionals they are, day in-day out."
Article Courtesy of: James Deller - www.PoliceOracle.com
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