Paris attacks: Lincolnshire Police tell residents to remain vigilant

Lincolnshire Police are reminding residents to report suspicious activity and remain vigilant in the wake of Friday’s terror attacks in the French capital.

There were seven coordinated bomb and gun strikes carried out at restaurants and bars, the Bataclan concert venue and outside the Stade de France stadium on Friday night, killing at least 129 people and injuring more than 350.

Thousands of people across Lincolnshire observed a minute-long silence at 11am on Monday, November 16 in tribute to those killed and injured.

A Lincolnshire Police spokesperson said: “We are constantly reviewing our policing approach and especially now in light of the recent terrorist attacks in Paris.

“Of course the most important thing for us to ask at this time is for the continued support of the community in passing information to the police.

“Deputy Chief Constable Heather Roach has reminded the public of the constant need to remain vigilant and to report anything suspicious.”

Anyone who sees or hears anything suspicious is being asked to contact police or the confidential Anti-Terrorist Hotline 0800 789 321.

As people gather in mourning in France, special forces and extra security are being installed at key locations in Britain amid fears the UK could be the next Isil terror target.

Leaders across Lincolnshire are also giving their reactions to the terror attacks.

Councillor Rosanne Kirk

Councillor Rosanne Kirk, Portfolio Holder for Social Inclusion and Community Cohesion at City of Lincoln Council, issued a statement following news of the attacks.

She said: “The terrorist attacks in Paris are truly horrifying and we send our deepest condolences to all those who have been affected.

“These atrocities are acts against humanity and look to divide communities. The perpetrators cannot be allowed to achieve their goals.

“We must stand united against these crimes and show that we all want to live in a society that’s tolerant and respectful, with communities that are supportive and as one.”

Police continue to hunt the suspected attackers, seven of whom died in explosions. Islamic State has claimed responsibility.

French military have launched airstrikes against Islamic State in Raqqa and anti-terror raids in Paris, Calais, Toulouse and Grenoble.

An official list of victims is yet to be circulated, however more than 103 people are said to have been identified.

Of those named as having lost their lives is Briton Nick Alexander, who lost his life along with 88 others at a rock gig at the Bataclan concert hall.

A spokesperson from the county’s equality and human rights charity JUST Lincolnshire has said: “It is with a heavy heart that, here at JUST Lincolnshire, we see a weekend where hatred and intolerance make the global headlines, with mass killings in Paris and the Middle East.

“No one would expect to go out for an evening meal, a football match or rock concert and not return.

“JUST Lincolnshire recognises that these actions are not representative of the Islamic faith and do not reflect the views of the broader Muslim communities.

“JUST Lincolnshire calls upon all sections of society here in Lincolnshire to join together in responding to these atrocities, not by fighting hate with hate or intolerance with further intolerance but by recognising that communities work best when we all pull together.”

Were you in the area? Have you been affected by what’s happening? If you have information to share, you can get in touch with The Lincolnite on [email protected], or by calling 01522 837217.