British terrorism reinsurer, Pool Re has launched a new series of Sector Risk Reports which focuses on public transport and facilities.
The initial report explains that the sector remains an attractive target for terrorists due to the high concentration of potential victims and the low complexity of planning required to cause mass terror.
The report found that due to the reduction in lockdown restrictions, increasing passenger numbers herald the return of crowds and the potential for an attack.
Counter-terrorism police have made a number of warnings of the increasing threat of self-radicalisation during lockdown and the return of crowded spaces may present a target which has not been present for over a year.
Additionally a terrorist attack against the public transport infrastructure could have a short-term impact on local economies and public confidence, which could be particularly damaging as the economy begins to recover post-Covid-19.
As part of its commitment to improve the UK’s resilience to terrorism, Pool Re urged policymakers to consider public awareness campaigns, as well as to review and update contingency plans, to mitigate the evolving risk from terrorist attacks on public transport infrastructure.
Ed Butler, Chief Resilience Officer, said: “Whilst the threat from an attack remains substantial, we know that better understanding leads to better preparation. We believe this report will be of significant value to those who manage or operate in the public transport sector including risk managers, security personnel and those organisations and advisors to them.
“Our SOLUTIONS division is dedicated to helping organisations and businesses reduce vulnerability, risk and susceptibility. Our priority is to increase resistance and resilience to terrorism. We provide organisations the means to support them to identify vulnerabilities and implement mitigation strategies, before, during, and after a crisis, using a bespoke blend of intelligence, tools and techniques.
“These reports provide a detailed picture of the threat and vulnerabilities to a range of sectors, some part of our critical infrastructure such public transport, retail and hospitality, energy, and public services. They examine why and how attacks might be conducted, the potential impact of such attacks, common vulnerabilities and an evaluation of effective risk mitigation measures.”
