Armed police are to patrol the south Essex coastline as part of increased counter-terrorism measures, it was revealed today.
Gun-toting officers in body armour will become a familiar sight over the rest of the summer as daytrippers enjoy the rest of the good weather.
The marine unit is one of only two in the country with the ability to repel a waterborne terrorist attack and has been trained to tackle any chemical, biological, radiological or nuclear (CBRN) strike.
Essex Police insisted the armed patrols for the rest of the summer were not a response to a specific threat to any target but instead hoped the presence would reassure the public.
Chief Insp Tim Stokes said: "I want people to understand our role and what we are about in this ever-changing security-conscious climate.
"We have routine armed patrols at Stansted Airport to ensure public safety.
"Our aim is to maintain the security of the county's waterways and coastline and these waterborne armed officers should also be seen as part of our normal response to the increased terrorist threat."
Published Tuesday August 24, 2004
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