CST Security Bulletin
Wednesday, 27 May 2009
Latest news from the CST: Community Security Trust Security on implications for the UK Jewish community following the alleged plot to bomb synagogues in New York.
Authorities in the United States have arrested four men accused of plotting to bomb a synagogue and Jewish community centre in New York. The men were arrested after planting what they believed to be explosives at the two locations. The FBI, who had been monitoring the group and ensured they did not have real explosives, allege that the group "photographed several synagogues and Jewish community centers in the Bronx and elsewhere for consideration as possible targets in a planned terrorist bombing operation".
The alleged plotters appear to be a 'homegrown' American group and there is currently no evidence that they have connections to the UK. However, this plot should remind Jewish institutions and all visitors to communal buildings to remain particularly vigilant of suspicious activity and potential information-gathering at Jewish locations, and to ensure that security measures are followed.
Security Precautions - Reminder
- Be aware of your surroundings when arriving and leaving communal buildings.
- Remember to keep all external doors secured when the building is in use.
- Be alert for suspicious people and activities including parked cars and unattended bags.
- Effective security focuses on observing outwards from the building – spot the problem before the problem comes to you.
- Challenge and question all strangers and visitors to your building even if they are accompanied by someone you know.
- Pay special attention to the security of those outside your location. If you spot a suspicious person, object, bag, package or vehicle, immediately instruct people to move away. Either disperse them or take them inside the safety of the building. Call police on 999 and then CST without delay (see telephone numbers below).
- Try to prevent staff and visitors from congregating outside your building especially upon arrival and departure. Encourage people to disperse as quickly as possible, e.g. after services, at the end of the school day, or at the end of an event.
- Ensure that all of your security equipment, alarm systems and CCTV equipment are working correctly. Check that lenses are cleaned and video equipment is recording.
CST remains at its second highest level of alert and urges the community to report incidents and any suspicious activities immediately. This information will help CST and the Police to ensure that the community is able to conduct its activities in peace and comfort.
For security advice and guidance, or to report an incident, please contact CST on the following numbers:
London & Southern Regions: 020 8457 9999
Emergency Pager: 07659 101 668
Manchester & Northern Regions: 0161 792 6666
Emergency Pager: 0800 980 0668
In an emergency, always call the police on 999, then call the CST
General information is available on the CST website
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