Cheshire Constabulary’s Counter Terrorism Branch Small Ports
Unit’s primary role is to protect the national security of the UK
and to counter the threat of international and domestic terrorism,
espionage, proliferation, disruption and detection of organised
crime syndicates involved in people trafficking, people
exploitation, importation of drugs and weapons within the port
environment.
The ports within Cheshire comprise of small commercial ports
(non-passenger) along the Manchester Ship Canal, Cheshire, along
with the small marinas and numerous airfields / landing sites in
the County.
One of the responsibilities of the unit is to ensure compliance
with all relevant legislation, in particular the Terrorism Act
2000.
The unit is primarily an intelligence gathering unit and is
interested in obtaining intelligence and information in respect of
counter terrorism and also other aspects of crime, including
offences of smuggling, contraband and illegal immigration. Officers
from the unit will make regular visits to Maritime Ports and
Airports in an effort to meet owners and operators. Our aim is to
establish a more effective working relationship with the Maritime
& Aviation community of Cheshire.
The unit works closely with other agencies, in particular UKBA
(i.e. Customs and Immigration).
More information on the Unit can be found on our Counter Terrorism pages.