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Warden Notice 32/03
(14 December 2003)
Police officers from the Anti-Terrorist
Branch of the Metropolitan Police Service visited the Kingdom from
15 to 27 November. They visited a number of schools and compounds
in Riyadh, Jeddah and Eastern Province.
While acknowledging the high terrorist threat, they made positive
comments about a range of issues including -
- the variety of security measures designed to reduce the threat
of attack by vehicle borne explosive devices and by those on foot;
- checkpoints and chicanes in the approach areas, and stand off
protection provided by barriers, access control and perimeter
security;
- exchange of information between compound managers and other
interested parties;
- clear guidance at schools for children, teachers and other staff
on their emergency procedures; and innovative efforts made to
establish clear lines of communication to parents.
Factors which is some cases inhibited best practice
included - lack of resources/money which might reduce the effectiveness
of security measures;
- compounds in residential areas being unable to provide adequate
stand off distances;
- the absence of direct guidance from security experts;
- poorly positioned CCTV systems, blockers and chicanes, the absence
of effective emergency procedures and untrained security guards.
Overall the Advisers were impressed by the commitment
and application of resources dedicated to improving the security
of compounds, schools and other sites. It was clear to them that
everyone concerned, whether residents, staff or security personnel,
had made concerted efforts.
However it was impossible to guarantee protection
against large vehicle borne devices accompanied by terrorists willing
to commit (suicide). Compounds are not built to withstand large,
close range explosions. It was essential to keep under constant
review the methodology used by terrorists in order to ensure that
sound security countermeasures were in place.
I attach two documents, which give generic advice
on these security issues and specific advice on protection from
flying glass. You may find these useful when evaluating your own
individual security circumstances.
William John Neil
HM Consul
Attachments:
Security Survey
Protection against Flying Glass
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