UK: UK increases Northern Ireland-related terror threat level to severe March 28

Event

The UK Security Service (MI5) has raised the Northern Ireland-related Terrorism threat level in Northern Ireland from "Substantial" to "Severe" as of March 28. The decision was taken following an increase in activity relating to Northern Ireland-related terrorism in recent weeks, including an attack on a senior Police Service Northern Ireland (PSNI) officer on Feb. 22. The "Severe" threat designation officially means that an attack is highly likely; however, the increased threat level does not necessarily indicate concrete intelligence concerning specific plots. Officials have advised the public to be vigilant but not alarmed.

Authorities will likely implement increased security measures around sensitive sites and potential targets, including government offices and police headquarters. Security personnel will be especially vigilant, which could result in an increase in security alerts in the near term prompting short-notice business and transport disruptions in affected areas.

Context

Security services in the UK maintain two separate terrorist threat levels: a national threat level concerning the threat to the entire UK from terrorism and a threat level concerning the threat to Northern Ireland from Northern Ireland-related terrorism. The national threat level remains unchanged at "Substantial" following the last revision on Feb. 9 2022, when it was downgraded from "Severe."

Advice

Anticipate possible disruption from heightened security measures and increased scrutiny from security services. Plan accordingly for short-term security-related disruptions, which could occur with little-to-no warning. Remain calm and non-confrontational, and comply with authorities' instructions. Report any suspicious behavior or objects to authorities.