ACPO FoIA Request 0071/2012 NCTT reports relating to the 2012 Olympics Information in-scope of request extracted from documents covered by request 1. Information extracted from weekly Operation Element reports 2. Information extracted from Operation Element Q1 (2011-12) report 3. Information extracted from Operation Element Q2 (2011-12) report 4. Information extracted from Operation Element Q3 (2011-12) report 5. Information extracted from National Community Impact Assessment: London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay (July 2011) 6. Information extracted from National Community Impact Assessment: London 2012 Olympic & Paralympic Games (Jan 2012) 7. Information extracted from National Community Impact Assessment: London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay (Update Feb 2012)
Welcome message from author
This document is posted to help you gain knowledge. Please leave a comment to let me know what you think about it! Share it to your friends and learn new things together.
Transcript
ACPO FoIA Request 0071/2012
NCTT reports relating to the 2012
Olympics
Information in-scope of request extracted from documents covered by request
1. Information extracted from weekly Operation
Element reports
2. Information extracted from Operation Element Q1 (2011-12) report
3. Information extracted from Operation Element Q2 (2011-12) report
4. Information extracted from Operation Element Q3 (2011-12) report
5. Information extracted from National Community Impact Assessment: London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay (July 2011)
6. Information extracted from National Community Impact Assessment: London 2012 Olympic & Paralympic Games (Jan 2012)
7. Information extracted from National Community Impact Assessment: London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay (Update Feb 2012)
Operation Element Weekly Reports
1. OPERATION ELEMENT 07/04/11 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY [Information removed – out of scope] negative sentiments and activities in relation to the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games have been reported. TENSION ASSESSMENT FOR UK COMMUNITIES 2012 OLYMPIC & PARALYMPIC GAMES: Two reports indicate potential protest activity in relation to the Olympics: GENERAL: Open source reporting (www.newfathers4justice.info) indicates that NF4J may seek to disrupt the London 2012 Olympic Games. In response to the Family Law Review Report, the group is quoted as saying on its website: ‘Fathers have been let down by this Tory sham report and it’s time to take our gloves off, roll up our sleeves and expose this corruption. They promised us a presumption of contact yet we get no real change. Dads are lining up to climb up to roofs again and cause whatever disruption necessary to highlight this injustice. If this means disrupting the 2012 Olympics or their preparation then we will!’ MPS: Information received indicates that that the Park Plaza, Westminster Bridge was to be the subject of demonstrations by two separate groups on 05 and 06/04/11. Delegates from the Olympic Committee would be staying at the hotel and the demonstrations would be directed at them. Protest group 1 will be from Trade Union Congress protesting against the use of sweat shops for clothing manufacture. Protest group 2 will be from Sochi (a Russian city which will host the Winter Games in 2014). It is not clear what they are protesting about but it is believed to involve Olympic events being held in Russia. APPENDIX 1 – FORCE RETURNS Hampshire – Open source reporting (www.newfathers4justice.info) indicates that NF4J may seek to disrupt the London 2012 Olympic Games. In response to the Family Law Review Report, the group is quoted as saying on its website: “Fathers have been let down by this Tory sham report and it’s time to take our gloves off, roll up our sleeves and expose this corruption. They promised us a presumption of contact yet we get no real change. Dads are lining up to climb up to roofs again and cause whatever disruption necessary to highlight this injustice. If this means disrupting the 2012 Olympics or their preparation then we will!” MPS (Lambeth) – Information received via third hand emails that The Park Plaza, Westminster Bridge will be the subject of demonstrations by two separate groups on 5th and 6th April 2011. Delegates from the Olympic Committee will be staying at the Plaza and the demonstrations will be directed at them. Protest group 1 will be from Trade Union Congress protesting against the use of sweat shops for clothing manufacture. Protest group 2 will be from SOCHI. It is not clear what they are protesting about but it is believed to involve Olympic events being held in Russia.
2. OPERATION ELEMENT 14/04/11 APPENDIX 1 – FORCE RETURNS MPS (Islington) - Facebook event page titled 'BP and culture: time to break it off' created by Rising Tide UK calling for actions against organisations linked to BP in one form or another from 14/04/11 to 20/04/2011. The event page has been called to coincide with BP's AGM scheduled to take place in that week and also to mark the anniversary of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.
The Facebook event page specifically refers to a flashmob event to take place at 14.00 hours on 17/04/2011 at the Tate Modern. BP also sponsors: The British Museum; Tate Britain; The Science Museum; The Natural History Museum; The Royal Opera House; The National Theatre; The National Maritime Museum; The Almeida Theatre; The 2012 Olympics (a lead sponsor).
3. OPERATION ELEMENT 12/05/11 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 06/05/11 – 12/05/11 NATIONAL (including open source intelligence) LONDON - Security teams have carried out a three day anti-terrorism exercise at the Olympic Village in east London involving the Metropolitan Police, other emergency services and the Ministry of Defence.
4. OPERATION ELEMENT 19/05/11 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY An anti-Israel threatening email has been received at a training location where the Israeli swimming team will be training for the 2012 Olympics. TENSION ASSESSMENT FOR UK COMMUNITIES Northamptonshire report that Corby swimming pool will be used by the Israeli Olympic swimming team for training purposes in June 2011. An email to the venue has been received expressing disquiet at this arrangement. The email states that the Israeli’s are ‘nothing short of terrorists, shooting children and women and torturing others’. The email advises the details of the welcoming committee will be made available to his contacts in America and the Middle East so that people can contact them directly. This intelligence has been sent to the Olympic Intelligence Centre direct by Northamptonshire Police. OLYMPICS - An e-mail has been sent in relation to the Israeli Swimming Team using Corby swimming pool as a training venue in June 2011. The e-mail was from an individual and expresses dislike of the Israeli team using the pool. The email goes on to say the Israelis are nothing short of terrorists, shooting children and women and torturing others. The correspondent says he will be making the details of the welcoming committee available to his contacts in America and the Middle East so that people can contact them directly. This intelligence has been sent to the Olympic Intelligence Centre direct by Northamptonshire Police. APPENDIX 1 – FORCE RETURNS Northamptonshire – An e-mail has been sent in relation to the Israeli Swimming Team using Corby swimming pool as a training venue in June 2011. The e-mail was from an individual and expresses dislike of the Israeli team using the pool. The email goes on to say the Israelis are nothing short of terrorists, shooting children and women and torturing others. The correspondent says he will be making the details of the welcoming committee available to his contacts in America and the Middle East so that people can contact them directly. This intelligence has been sent to the Olympic Intelligence Centre direct by Northamptonshire Police.
5. OPERATION ELEMENT 26/05/11 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Forces have begun to report tensions pertaining to the 2012 Olympics Games. TENSION ASSESSMENT FOR UK COMMUNITIES OLYMPICS
- Two recent Road Traffic Collisions in Surrey involving pedal cyclists, one being Fatal the other life threatening, has seen community tensions emerging around cycling in the area. As this is part of the cycle route for the Olympics, this may have the potential for further tension in the build up to the Olympics.
- The caravan club in Essex are proposing to hold an event over the Olympics and Paralympics Games period, in Summer 2012. 1300 caravans will remain static on farm land in Chigwell xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [information exempt – s.40], who will also be residing there for the duration. The parish council have received approximately 600 letters of complaint and 47 persons attended a meeting supporting this view. On 19/05/11, residents held a peaceful protest outside the Chigwell Parish Council offices on Hainault Road, Chigwell. No reported incidents.
APPENDIX 1 – FORCE RETURNS Essex - The caravan club are proposing to hold an event over the Olympics and Paralympics in Summer 2012 whereby 1300 caravans will remain static on xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [information exempt – s.40] farm land in Chigwell. It is proposed that xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [information exempt – s.40] at the farm for the duration. Residents were informed of this proposal very late on and the parish council have received approximately 600 letters of complaint and 47 persons attended a meeting this week to support this view. There is expected to be a further meeting held at St Mary's Church (which has a large seating capacity) within the next week or two. At 11:45hrs on 19 May 2011 residents held a peaceful protest outside the Chigwell Parish Council offices on Hainault Road, Chigwell. No reported incidents. Surrey – Two recent Road Traffic Collisions involving pedal cyclists, one being Fatal the other life threatening, has seen community tensions emerging around cycling in the area. As this is part of the cycle route for the Olympics this may have the potential for further tension in the build up to the Olympics.
6. OPERATION ELEMENT 16/06/11 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Forces are beginning to provide returns in relation to the 2012 Olympics. Two forces have reported anti-Olympic graffiti at Olympic sites. TENSION ASSESSMENT FOR UK COMMUNITIES OLYMPICS:
- All Forces - Olympic Torch Relay between 19/05/11 to 27/07/12 Passing through 74 different locations around the United Kingdom, the Olympic torch will begin at Land’s End before finishing at the Olympic stadium for the opening ceremony.
- BTP report a campaign entitled: ‘Stop Nuclear Trains through Olympic Site’ and associated action on the 23/07/11. Action will involve engagement with train passengers followed by a rally and a symbolic ‘die-in’ in front of Stratford station. A stall distributing leaflets and also running a petition will be in place outside of the station.
- Two reports of anti-Olympic graffiti at Olympic sites have been made over the past week, in Weymouth and Greenwich Park.
APPENDIX 1 – FORCE RETURNS Dorset - On 10/06/11 police attended the Nothe Fort in Weymouth following reports of graffiti. The Fort is a historic military building, which will be one of the sites for spectator viewings at the 2012 Olympic sailing events. The graffiti was 12 inches high in white paint reading, “F*** off Olympics, bring
back the roundabout”. This is likely to refer to recent traffic changes in Weymouth made as part of development ahead of the Games. MPS (Greenwich) – On 28/05/11 at One Tree Hill Greenwich Park SE10 the following damage was found by police to the base of a wooden equestrian show jump which is part of a course for the Olympics situated in the park. The words ‘F**K OLMPICS’ in 4 inch letters was written with a black marker type pen on both sides of the jump No suspects seen or any witnesses. Olympic intelligence informed. All Forces - Olympic Torch Relay between 19/05/11 to 27/07/12 Passing through 74 different locations around the United Kingdom, the Olympic torch will begin at Land’s End before finishing at the Olympic stadium for the opening ceremony. BTP - Message advertising action for ‘Stop Nuclear Trains through Olympic Site’ on 23/07/11: Action will consist of informing train passengers on four successive trains of nuclear trains on the line between Highbury & Islington and Stratford, followed by a rally and symbolic die-in in front of Stratford Station. Meet noon at Highbury & Islington Station (don’t be late). Arrive 1.30 pm at Stratford Station. (People who don’t want to do the train part of the action should go straight to Stratford for 1.30 pm to meet the train contingent.) 1.45 – 2.30 pm: rally outside Stratford Station. 2.30 pm – 2.45 pm: die-in outside the station. We will also run a stall outside the station with leafleting and collecting names on a petition between 1.30 pm and 3 pm. Organised by : Nuclear Trains Action group, www.nonucleartrains.org.uk; xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.40] MPS - Opening Ceremony on 27/07/12 The opening ceremony for London 2012 Olympic games which are set to run from 27/07/12 to 12/08/12 MPS - The Paralympics commences with the games are set to run from 29/08/12 to 09/09/12.
7. OPERATION ELEMENT 23/06/11 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Further reports received pertaining to the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games TENSION ASSESSMENT FOR UK COMMUNITIES OLYMPICS:
- Campaign activity experienced in Greenwich relating to the Olympic venue there. No to Greenwich Olympic Equestrian Events (Nogoe) campaign members plan to wave placards featuring their “anti-mascots” outside St Mary’s Gate. The test event will be held from from 4 – 06/07/11. Nogoe members are urging people to lobby athletes and Olympic officials as they arrive and leave
- Details of parking restrictions, no- stopping zones and special traffic lanes to link Greenwich’s three venues during the London 2012 Olympics have been revealed. They will be in force from late July 2012 until September 2012 to keep traffic flowing during the events in Greenwich Park.
- LOCOG are building towards their test event commencing 04/07/2011 for 3 days. There has been interest shown to the location of the test arena and park by various groups and social reporting on TWITTER has stated that young persons are breaking in to the tented areas within the venue and using the tents to smoke cannabis.
APPENDIX 1 – FORCE RETURNS MPS - Details of parking restrictions, no- stopping zones and special traffic lanes to link Greenwich’s three venues during the London 2012 Olympics have been revealed. They are being planned for the Olympic Route Network (ORN) that will be used by Olympic and Paralympic competitors, officials and sponsors during the Games. They will be in force from late July 2012 until September 2012 to keep traffic flowing during the events in Greenwich Park, The 02 - which will be renamed the North
Greenwich Arena - and the Royal Artillery Barracks in Woolwich. The 2012 organisers want to discourage spectators from parking in the area. MPS - Campaigners against the use of Greenwich Park as an Olympic venue are to hold a protest at a test event being held next month. No to Greenwich Olympic Equestrian Events (Nogoe) campaign members plan to wave placards featuring their “anti-mascots” outside St Mary’s Gate. The test event will be held from from 4 – 607/11. Nogoe members are urging people to lobby athletes and Olympic officials as they arrive and leave MPS - LOCOG are building towards their test event commencing 04/07/2011 for 3 days. There has been interest shown to the location of the test arena and park by various groups and social reporting on TWITTER has stated that young persons are breaking into the tented areas within the venue and using the tents to smoke cannabis.
8. OPERATION ELEMENT 30/06/11 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Reports received pertaining to the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games TENSION ASSESSMENT FOR UK COMMUNITIES Cambridgeshire - During the early hours of 17/06/11 several premises in Cambridge were subject to criminal damage including graffiti on buildings and windows with anti banking, anti capitalist slogans and anarchy symbols in orange paint; cash dispensers glued up; door locks either glued or secured with chains and bike locks. The following premises were targeted – Barclays bank, Lloyds TSB Bank, HSBC Bank; Job Centre; Seetec; Comment: Additional Olympic highlight, as impacted on official sponsor to London 2012 Olympic/Paralympic Games. OLYMPICS:
- The criminal damage experienced in Cambridge at Lloyds TSB – an official sponsor of the 2012 Olympic/Paralympic Games
- On 02-03/07/11 LLOYDS TSB is planning a recruitment campaign during the Cowley Carnival although it is unclear which day of the Carnival they plan to do this. They are looking to recruit people to carry the Olympic Torch next year and need to find 8000 people across the country. Intelligence suggests that if they can`t find a suitable location to recruit around the Cowley Carnival they will do it close to a LLOYDS TSB Bank in Oxford. Due to LLOYDS TSB Banks being targets for protests recently there is a possibility that their recruitment campaign may become an attraction for protests again.
- Dorset - Local and national news have featured criticism of London Olympic Games Organisers (LOCOG) (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-13916806) regarding their intentions to fence off and charge admission to a public park in Dorset. It is perceived by some that this is preventing people from watching some sailing events. LOCOG is seeking planning permission to fence off Nothe Gardens in Weymouth, Dorset stating this will aid "safety and crowd-control". A local councillor, John Burtwistle, called this stance "nonsense", saying that people will be forced to pay £55 to watch the event from the park. The park will have views of the ceremonial medal run during the Olympics, and if approved, the plan would close off 40,000 square metres of public space.
- BTP - Stop Nuclear Trains Through Olympic Site on 23/07/11. Message reads Action will consist of informing train passengers on four successive trains of nuclear trains on the line between Highbury & Islington and Stratford, followed by a rally and symbolic die-in in front of Stratford Station. Meet noon at Highbury & Islington Station (don’t be late). Arrive 1.30 pm at Stratford Station. (People who don’t want to do the train part of the action should go straight to Stratford for 1.30 pm to meet the train contingent.) 1.45 – 2.30 pm: rally outside Stratford Station. 2.30 pm – 2.45 pm: die-in outside the station. We will also run a stall outside the station with leafleting and collecting names on a petition between 1.30 pm and 3 pm. Organised by : Nuclear Trains Action group, www.nonucleartrains.org.uk; xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.40]
OPEN SOURCE DIGEST UK – The 2012 Olympic sailing events off Weymouth and Portland will see the biggest security operation ever mounted by Dorset Police, however this comes at a time when the force is being forced to make massive budget cuts. Bournemouth Echo/Daily Echo /Western Daily Press 24/06/11 APPENDIX 1 – FORCE RETURNS Cambridgeshire - During the early hours of 17/06/11 several premises in Cambridge were subject to criminal damage including graffiti on buildings and windows with anti banking, anti capitalist slogans and anarchy symbols in orange paint; cash dispensers glued up; door locks either glued or secured with chains and bike locks. The following premises were targeted – Barclays bank, Lloyds TSB Bank, HSBC Bank; Job Centre; Seetec; Comment: Additional Olympic highlight, as impacted on official sponsor to London 2012 Olympic/Paralympic Games. Dorset - Local and national news have featured criticism of London Olympic Games Organisers (LOCOG) (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-13916806) regarding their intentions to fence off and charge admission to a public park in Dorset. It is perceived by some that this is preventing people from watching some sailing events. LOCOG is seeking planning permission to fence off Nothe Gardens in Weymouth, Dorset stating this will aid "safety and crowd-control". A local councillor, John Burtwistle, called this stance "nonsense", saying that people will be forced to pay £55 to watch the event from the park. The park will have views of the ceremonial medal run during the Olympics, and if approved, the plan would close off 40,000 square metres of public space. TVP – On 02-03/07/11 LLOYDS TSB is planning a recruitment campaign during the Cowley Carnival although it is unclear which day of the Carnival they plan to do this. They are looking to recruit people to carry the Olympic Torch next year and need to find 8000 people across the country. Intelligence suggests that if they can`t find a suitable location to recruit around the Cowley Carnival they will do it close to a LLOYDS TSB Bank in Oxford. Due to LLOYDS TSB Banks being targets for protests recently there is a possibility that their recruitment campaign may become an attraction for protests again. BTP - Stop Nuclear Trains Through Olympic Site on 23/07/11. Message reads Action will consist of informing train passengers on four successive trains of nuclear trains on the line between Highbury & Islington and Stratford, followed by a rally and symbolic die-in in front of Stratford Station. Meet noon at Highbury & Islington Station (don’t be late). Arrive 1.30 pm at Stratford Station. (People who don’t want to do the train part of the action should go straight to Stratford for 1.30 pm to meet the train contingent.) 1.45 – 2.30 pm: rally outside Stratford Station. 2.30 pm – 2.45 pm: die-in outside the station. We will also run a stall outside the station with leafleting and collecting names on a petition between 1.30 pm and 3 pm. Organised by : Nuclear Trains Action group, www.nonucleartrains.org.uk; xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.40]
9. OPERATION ELEMENT 07/07/11 OPEN SOURCE DIGEST UK – A live counter-terrorism exercise to test how effectively emergency services respond to an alert will take place before the London Olympics. The Independent 06/07/11
10. OPERATION ELEMENT 14/07/11 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
NATIONAL (including open source intelligence)
UK – Lord Carlile, the former independent reviewer of terrorism legislation, has described London as a global ‘hub’ for terrorism and said that political wrangling has increased the risk of attack during the Olympics. TENSION ASSESSMENT FOR UK COMMUNITIES OLYMPICS: Campaigners who say Greenwich Park should not be used as an Olympic venue staged a peaceful protest outside the test event on 04/07/11. The protesters are members of ‘No to Greenwich Olympic Equestrian Events’ (NOGOE) and say that the world heritage site will be badly damaged by the games. OPEN SOURCE DIGEST UK – London is a global "hub" for terrorism and political wrangling within the Coalition has increased the risk of attack during the Olympics, according to senior government adviser, Lord Carlile. The Evening Standard 07/07/11 APPENDIX 1 – FORCE RETURNS MPS (Greenwich) - Campaigners who say Greenwich Park should not be used as an Olympic venue staged a peaceful protest outside the test event. Members of the No to Greenwich Olympic Equestrian Events (NOGOE) group, who say that the world heritage site will be badly damaged by the games, protested outside the park’s St Mary’s Gate from 8am on 04/07/11 to lobby athletes and organisers of the test event. http://www.mercuryoday.co.uk/news.cfm?id=24704&headline=Peaceful%20protest%20held%20outside%20park
11. OPERATION ELEMENT 21/07/11 TENSION ASSESSMENT FOR UK COMMUNITIES OLYMPICS: OPC Community Relations Team attended Greenwich Park and have stated that during the four day period the CRT established a successful working relationship with the ‘No to Greenwich Olympic Equestrian Events’ NOGOE protesters. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information– s.31] OPEN SOURCE DIGEST UK – A new system for extending detention before charge could result in the collapse of terrorist trials, the new independent watchdog has warned. David Anderson QC also warned that guidelines around random stop and search powers were not clear enough and could be over-used at the Olympics next year because of pressure from foreign governments. The Telegraph 18/07/11
12. OPERATION ELEMENT 28/07/11 TENSION ASSESSMENT FOR UK COMMUNITIES ISLAMIC EMIRATES PROJECT: Reporting from MPS continues to show ALM/Muslims against Crusades (MAC) campaigning along this theme. In Newham a group of males were speaking to members of the public on the introduction of Shariah law, outside Stratford Mall which is close to the Olympic Park. ‘Shariah Controlled Zone’ posters continue to be put up in Waltham Forest and now also in Tower Hamlets. The local authority in Waltham Forest is removing the posters. Apparent MAC members were also attempting to hand out leaflets to the congregation at the Noor Ul Islam Mosque in Waltham Forest at Friday prayers on 22/07/11. APPENDIX 1 – FORCE RETURNS
TVP - The World Junior Rowing Championships are running from 04-07/08/2011 at the venue of the Olympic Rowing event in Dorney Lake. It is being treated by LOCOG as a test event. There is currently no information to suggest any criminal or DE activity around this event. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31]
13. OPERATION ELEMENT 04/08/11 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY INTERNATIONAL (including open source intelligence) INTERNATIONAL - IT security firm McAfee claims to have uncovered one of the largest ever series of cyber attacks. It lists 72 different organisations that were targeted over five years, including the International Olympic Committee, the UN and security firms. INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES TENSION ASSESSMENT FOR UK COMMUNITIES Olympics: Dorset have reported a series of local news stories focuses negative aspects of the Olympic Games related activity within the area – including apparently disruptive road works in preparation of the games and reduced access to a public park during the games period. Whilst local issues, similar reporting may start to be seen in other parts of the UK ahead of the games. OPEN SOURCE DIGEST INTERNATIONAL - IT security firm McAfee claims to have uncovered one of the largest ever series of cyber attacks. It lists 72 different organisations that were targeted over five years, including the International Olympic Committee, the UN and security firms. BBC News 03/08/11. ISRAEL - British Ambassador to Israel Matthew Gould addressed the Knesset, officially inviting Israel to the 2012 Olympic games and paid tribute to the 11 Israeli athletes who were abducted and murdered by Palestinian terrorists, adding that the UK and Israel "remain united in the determination to defend ourselves against terror." The Jerusalem Post 27/07/11 APPENDIX 1 – FORCE RETURNS Dorset - The Dorset Echo ran an article on 02.08.2011 referring to what they describe as a “year of of pain suffered by motorists and traders” during substantial roadworks in Weymouth ahead of the Olympic Sailing Events. Olympic Minister Bob Neill visited and stated that it was “short-term disruption for long-term gains”. http://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/9172311.Weymouth_s_Olympic_transport_package__Minister_tells_people_it_was_worth_the_wait/ Dorset - Local newspaper Echo reported on 23.07.2011 residents’ “fury” at an application to open a ‘massage parlour’ in Portland, Dorset close to the site of 2012 Sailing Events. The applicant is a Chinese female. Local residents are unhappy, believing it will only be opened for the duration of the Olympics and naming it the ‘Olympic Massage Parlour’. http://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/9156687.Portlanders__fury_at_new_massage_parlour_plans/?ref=ms Dorset - Controversial plans to set up a fenced-off, ticketed area in a public park in Weymouth have been given planning permission in a unanimous vote by local councillors. The local news article on 27.07.2011 was appended by numerous online comments bemoaning the loss of public rights of way, the fact that all tickets had already been sold prior to granting of planning permission and allegations of corruption amongst local councillors.
http://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/9162662.BREAKING_NEWS__Go_ahead_for_Olympic_spectator_area_on_Nothe_Gardens/?ref=mc
14. OPERATION ELEMENT 18/08/11 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED:
IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES APPENDIX 1 – FORCE RETURNS Dyfed Powys - Open source indicates that the Archdruid of Wales, T James Jones wants the Welsh flag to be raised and the Welsh National anthem played for Welsh medal winners at the 2012 London Olympics. The Eisteddfod Bro Morgannwg will be held at the same time as the Olympic Games.
15. OPERATION ELEMENT 25/08/11 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED:
IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES NATIONAL (including open source intelligence) WARWICKSHIRE – Further riots could undermine the Olympic Games, Warwickshire Police Federation is warning. INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES OPEN SOURCE DIGEST WARWICKSHIRE - More riots could undermine Olympic Games, warn Warwickshire police Further riots could undermine the Olympic Games, Warwickshire Police Federation is warning. Following last week’s violence and looting, the warning comes as the Federation launches a new campaign called Getting A Clearer Picture to put politicians under pressure over cuts. Coventry Telegraph 18/08/11
16. OPERATION ELEMENT 08/09/11 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED:
IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES APPENDIX 1 – FORCE RETURNS
Essex (Chelmsford) – On 02/09/11 a suspect caused damage to a shop window using a black pen to write the ‘only thing the Olympic games bring is more ni**ers to Chelmsford.’
17. OPERATION ELEMENT 07/10/11 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED:
IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES OPEN SOURCE DIGEST UK - Watered-down terror law threatens public, warns peer The Government is being "negligent" by watering down anti-terror laws just months before the London Olympics, a senior Liberal Democrat said today. Lord Carlile, speaking during the second reading of the Terrorism Prevention and Investigation Measures Bill in the Lords, criticised the replacing of control orders with less tough restrictions on suspected terrorists. London Evening Standard 06/10/11
18. OPERATION ELEMENT 21/10/11 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED:
IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES NATIONAL (including open source intelligence) UK - Three elite police squads trained in SAS combat skills are being set up to counter the risk of a Mumbai style "spectacular" attack by al Qaeda on the London Olympics. INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES TENSION ASSESSMENT FOR UK COMMUNITIES Waltham Forest Guardian reported concerns regarding plans to build a temporary sports hall for Olympic athletes on Leyton Marshes. It is the latest in a series of Olympic buildings which Games organisers plan to build on public green spaces. Concerns have previously been raised about closing Drapers Field in Leyton for a holding and storage area, Wanstead Flats for a temporary police base, and the WaterWorks Nature Reserve in Leyton for use as a campsite. OPEN SOURCE DIGEST UK - Elite police trained in SAS skills to counter Olympic terrorist threat Three elite police squads trained in SAS combat skills are being set up to counter the risk of a Mumbai style "spectacular" attack by al Qaeda on the London Olympics. The three teams, which will each contain between 30 and 40 officers, will be on standby to deploy instantly across the country either to contain or prevent a terrorist attack. London Evening Standard 17/10/11 APPENDIX 1 – FORCE RETURNS
MPS – Waltham Forest Guardian has reported concerns which have been raised over plans to build a temporary sports hall for Olympic athletes on Leyton Marshes. It has emerged that the Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) are to submit a planning application to construct a basketball training centre close to the Lee Valley ice rink by Lea Bridge Road. The 11 metre tall building will operate between 9am and 9pm every day and be surrounded by a three metre perimeter fence with a heavy security presence. The ODA wants to fence off part of the marsh for the project in March 2012. The organisation claims it will return the land, which is managed by the Lee Valley Regional Park Authority, back to its original condition when the Paralympic Games finish in September 2012. It is the latest in a series of Olympic buildings which Games organisers plan to build on public green spaces. Concerns have previously been raised about closing Drapers Field in Leyton for a holding and storage area, Wanstead Flats for a temporary police base, and the WaterWorks Nature Reserve in Leyton for use as a campsite.
19. OPERATION ELEMENT 04/11/11 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED:
IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES APPENDIX 1 – FORCE RETURNS West Midlands - During the London 2012 Olympic Games, the high profile USA and Jamaican athletics teams will be based in Birmingham. Team USA will be using different facilities across the city while the Jamaican athletes will be based out of Birmingham University. This will provide opportunity for demonstrators and potential for disorder.
20. OPERATION ELEMENT 11/11/11 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED:
IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES OPEN SOURCE DIGEST UK - Operation Black Chariot to simulate terrorist attack Olympics chiefs will simulate emergencies at the Games in a three-day training exercise next month…The table-top exercise will attempt to recreate the conditions inside the Olympic control rooms in the event of a major security threat. The London Evening Standard 07/11/11
21. OPERATION ELEMENT 18/11/11 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED:
IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES NATIONAL (including open source intelligence) UK - The US has raised repeated concerns about security at the London Olympics and is preparing to send up to 1,000 of its agents, including 500 from the FBI, to provide protection for America's contestants and diplomats, the Guardian has learned. LONDON - Missiles could be fired in London to protect the Olympic Games from terrorist attack, Philip Hammond, the Defence Secretary, announced. INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES TENSION ASSESSMENT FOR UK COMMUNITIES CYCLING: Surrey has reported that a local Boxhill resident has ‘expressed’ his frustrations with cyclists and their behaviour in the area. Other cyclists in the area have been warned regarding their cycling 3-4 abreast. The Olympics Road Cycling event will go through Boxhill and previous Element reporting has seen concerns raised over cyclists’ safety. TAMIL HEROES DAY: MPS has reported a Tamil Remembrance Day on 27/11/11 held at ExCel. There are numerous other events taking place on that day at the Excel, not least Top Gear Live and Olympic test events (24 - 27 Nov Boxing, Fencing, Table Tennis and Handball). OPEN SOURCE DIGEST UK - US officials worried about security at London 2012 Olympics The US has raised repeated concerns about security at the London Olympics and is preparing to send up to 1,000 of its agents, including 500 from the FBI, to provide protection for America's contestants and diplomats, the Guardian has learned. American officials have expressed deep unease that the UK has had to restrict the scope of anti-terrorism "stop and search" powers, and have sought a breakdown of the number of British police and other security personnel that will be available next summer. The Guardian 13/11/11 APPENDIX 1 – FORCE RETURNS Surrey - A local resident in Boxhill, Surrey who ‘expressed’ his frustrations with cyclists and their behaviour in the area resulted in him losing his temper at seeing them cycling ‘2 abreast’ Other cyclists in the area have been warned regarding their cycling 3-4 abreast. The volume of individuals at this location is significantly lower than in previous weeks – may be due to re-landscaping. MPS (Newham) - Tamil Hero’s Day 27/11/11 - Local Police are working closely with others to look at issues surrounding this forthcoming event at the Excel. There are numerous other events taking place on that day at the Excel, not least Top Gear Live and Olympic test events (24 - 27 Nov Boxing, Fencing, Table Tennis and Handball). Nothing being reported at this time from the SN teams that cover our main Tamil areas.
22. OPERATION ELEMENT 25/11/11 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED:
IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES NATIONAL (including open source intelligence) UK - Sikh athletes and spectators will be able to wear kirpans to the London 2012 Olympic sites but with some conditions.
INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES TENSION ASSESSMENT FOR UK COMMUNITIES HS2: West Midlands has reported that the construction of the HS2 may incur protest activity which could impact on the West Midlands and could converge with the Torch Relay route. ‘Stop HS2’ is a local pressure group dedicated to preventing the construction of the new HS2 rail route and the proposed HS2 line shares common points with the Olympic Torch relay Route. There is potential that when the torch passes through Birmingham and other large cities, there could be disorder. OPEN SOURCE DIGEST UK - UK allows 'kirpans' at Olympics with riders Sikh athletes and spectators will be able to wear 'kirpans' to the London 2012 Olympic sites but with some conditions. As part of their efforts to make the Olympic most religion-friendly, Sikhs will be allowed to carry the kirpans (religious dagger) as long as they are hidden under their clothes. IBN Live 21/11/11. APPENDIX 1 – FORCE RETURNS West Midlands – ‘Stop HS2’ is a local pressure group dedicated to preventing the construction of the new HS2 rail route from London through the Home Counties to Birmingham and beyond, joining the existing West Coast Mainline at Elmhurst. Feelings in the Home Counties continue to intensify against the construction and there are indications in the open source media that protests will take place over the coming months. The proposed HS2 line shares common points with the Olympic Torch relay Route. Given the crossover of locations, some part of the Olympic Torch Relay Route would lend itself as a platform for protest. With previous relays providing good opportunities for protesters to get themselves, their causes and their demonstrations noticed, there is potential that when the torch passes through Birmingham and other large cities, there could be disorder.
23. OPERATION ELEMENT 02/12/11 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED:
IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES NATIONAL (including open source intelligence) UK – Labour has launched a last ditch bid to stop the Government changing counter-terrorism laws which will allow suspected extremists to return to London months before the Olympics. INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES TENSION ASSESSMENT FOR UK COMMUNITIES OLYMPIC PARK PROTEST: The MPS report that as part of December’s month of festive against Atos and the benefits cuts, disabled people, benefit claimants and supporters will be demonstrating outside the Paralympics Goal Ball test event being held at the Olympic Park in Stratford on 03/12/2011. Atos are the French IT firm responsible for carrying out the government’s Work Capability Assessment which has led to tens of thousands of sick and disabled people being forced into poverty after being stripped of essential benefits. NDEU - 03/12/11 Olympics Test Events – 3 x Internationals at the Excel Centre OPEN SOURCE DIGEST
UK – Summer riots could repeat during the Olympics, panel concludes England could be hit by more riots next summer – possibly during the London Olympics – without urgent action to tackle their causes and to improve policing in potential flashpoints, a government-commissioned report by the Independent Riots, Communities and Victims Panel has warned. The Independent 29/11/11 APPENDIX 1 – FORCE RETURNS MPS – xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.40 commented that there was a video titled something similar to 100,000 will die during the Olympics on YouTube which started off with images of 9/11 but pre 9/11 (trying to say that some people knew about 9/11 before it happened etc), the message was that something big is going to happen during the Olympics. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] SIGNIFICANT DATES, ANNIVERSARIES, EVENTS 03 – 04/12/11 London 2012 Olympics testing continues - Judo and Taekwondo at ExCel (FENS) 10 – 11/12/11 London 2012 Olympics testing continues - Wrestling and Weightlifting at ExCel (FENS)
24. OPERATION ELEMENT 09/12/11 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED:
IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES OLYMPICS ACTIVITY Disabled People Against the Cuts (DPAC) staged a protest outside the Olympic Park at the Goalball Test Event. INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES TENSION ASSESSMENT FOR UK COMMUNITIES ROAD CYCLING: Surrey has reported that words of advice continue to be given to both car drivers and cyclists with regards to road safety in the Boxhill area. One email was received reporting a vehicle giving abuse to a group of cyclists. This follows historic reporting linked to concerns over the road safety and behaviour of cyclists in this area. During the Olympics, Road Cycling will take place in this area. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] APPENDIX 1 – FORCE RETURNS Surrey - Words of advice continue to be given to both car drivers and cyclists with regards to road safety in the Boxhill area. One email was received reporting a vehicle giving abuse to a group of cyclists. The area is being regularly patrolled and speed checks are being undertaken. SIGNIFICANT DATES, ANNIVERSARIES, EVENTS 10 – 11/12/11 London 2012 Olympics testing continues - Wrestling and Weightlifting at ExCel (FENS)
25. OPERATION ELEMENT 06/01/12
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED:
IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES OLYMPICS ACTIVITY An Olympic flash mob demo is expected to take place on 27/01/12 – location unknown. INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES TENSION ASSESSMENT FOR UK COMMUNITIES xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] DEMONSTRATION: On 27/01/12, MPS/NDEU has identified through open source reporting the intention to hold an Olympic Flash mob event planned. Location, time and organisers are yet to be verified. OPEN SOURCE DIGEST LONDON – Public Sector pensions offer rejected by Unite The Unite union has rejected the government's latest offer on public sector pensions for NHS workers and warned strikes may continue during the Olympic games in London. The union's health sector committee called on ministers to enter "meaningful" negotiations on pensions. The union, which has 100,000 members in the NHS, will meet again on 11 January to decide what action to take next. The government made its updated 'final' offer for NHS workers in December. BBC News, 05/01/12. APPENDIX 1 – FORCE RETURNS xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] MPS - Open source research has identified an Olympic Flashmob event provisionally planned for 27/01/12 but a location and time have yet to be confirmed. There will be additional information and future flashmob events related to the Olympics on Twitter profile OlympicFlashmob. The above findings can be located at the web addresses.
http://www.flashmob.co.uk/index.php/site/page/olympic_flashmob/ http://twitter.com/OlympicFlashmob
26. OPERATION ELEMENT 13/01/12 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED:
IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES TENSION ASSESSMENT FOR UK COMMUNITIES DEMONSTRATION: Open source research indicates that on 27/01/12, a London Olympic Flash mob event has been planned. OPEN SOURCE DIGEST
UK – Hate crimes against Indians may prove costly of UK tourism The recent hate crimes against Indians could prove very costly of UK tourism ahead of the London Olympics. The negative coverage surrounding hate crimes could restrain Indian tourists from travelling to the UK especially during the London Olympics. Easydestination.net 10/01/12 APPENDIX 1 – FORCE RETURNS West Midlands - Sami Mohamed Ali AL-FADLI has become the second terrorist threat to be banned from flying into any British airport by the Home Secretary Theresa May. The blanket ban was brought into force following intelligence received that the suspected terror group leader plans to ‘blow-up a plane’. AL-FADLI, thought to be hiding out in Yemen, once a refugee in the UK, is being regarded as a very significant threat to British security. The first terror suspect to be banned is Algerian national Reda MASOUF following an investigation into Islamic extremism in Manchester. Police and Armed Forces are on high alert for both the Olympic Games and Torch Relay. TVP - An event called Olympic Flashmob is being organised on 27/01/12 to mark six months before the Olympic Games. The Twitter account is @OlympicFlashmob and information is posted on http://www.flashmob.co.uk/index.php/ site/page/olympic_flashmob/ which states “After hundreds of people auditioned for the London Olympic Ceremonies and learned a routine, why let that knowledge go to waste? Join us for the official London Olympic Flashmob! Routine video will be online shortly, so anyone can join.”
27. OPERATION ELEMENT 20/01/12 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED:
IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES OLYMPICS ACTIVITY No significant issues reported. Two South Eastern forces have reported local tensions linked to both the Torch Relay and the rowing event at Eton Dorney. INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES TENSION ASSESSMENT FOR UK COMMUNITIES TORCH RELAY PROTEST ACTIVITY: Surrey highlights open source reporting that taxi drivers in Guildford (Guildford Hackney Association - GHA) who want to instigate a fare rise during the Olympics are not being heard by the local Council. The GHA has warned that they will protest as the Olympic Torch passes through Guildford if their complaints are not heeded by the Council. This indicates the status of Olympic Torch Relay as a target of interest for protest/community groups to highlight their cause(s). NF4J ACTIVITY: TVP also highlights open source reporting that the New Fathers 4 Justice have sent letters to TVP MPs asking them to support their cause for equal parental rights. The NF4J have mooted activity at Eton Dorney such as dying the lake purple and an activist hang-gliding during a rowing event. This indicates the status of Olympic Venues as a target of interest for protest/community groups to highlight their cause(s).
28. OPERATION ELEMENT 27/01/12 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED:
IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES
OLYMPICS ACTIVITY A number of Olympic related protests have taken place. INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES TENSION ASSESSMENT FOR UK COMMUNITIES PROTESTS: On 16/01/12 a protest banner unfurled near to the Olympics site read “JUSTICE FOR VICTIMS OF THE OLYMPICS”. This is considered to be part of an on-going local dispute with LOCOG regarding business operations during the Olympic Games. In a separate protest, a group of protesters blocked the entrance of ADECCO UK Ltd in Brighton on 20/01/12. The protest was deemed peaceful and thought to have occurred due to its Olympics sponsorship endorsement. EVENTS: 28/01/12: Oxford Camp for Climate Action intends to hold an event entitled ‘Countering the Olympics’. The objective of this meeting is to examine the impact of the Games on people across the UK and the world. 10/06/12: The Save Wanstead Flats group are to hold a community picnic to celebrate Wanstead Flats status as a much loved open space. The area has been subject to opposition due to its use during the Olympics as a police muster point.
29. OPERATION ELEMENT 03/02/12 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED:
IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES OLYMPICS ACTIVITY Community public meetings report localised tensions from residents concerning the use of certain locations specifically for the purposes of the Olympic Games. INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES TENSION ASSESSMENT FOR UK COMMUNITIES PUBLIC MEETINGS: The following concerns were raised at recent community meetings: - A public meeting on 27/01/12 concerning the use of Greenwich Park during the Olympic Games was met with opposition and threats of disruption by members of NOGOE towards LOCOG representatives. - Additionally, community concerns at a separate public meeting have expressed concerns against an Olympic campsite in Walthamstow, which is anticipated to create congestion issues to the surrounding area.
30. OPERATION ELEMENT 10/02/12 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED:
IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES OLYMPICS ACTIVITY Localised objections to proposals of certain premises during the Olympics remain a focus. INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED
IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES TENSION ASSESSMENT FOR UK COMMUNITIES Local London media have highlighted concerns related to camping plans in London. A college in Walthamstow has denied signing a deal for a campsite on its grounds during the Olympics, but 'The London Camping Company' is taking bookings online for pitches at the college; it appears the firm is yet to formally secure the site. Media have reported on alleged rent increases caused by the 2012 Olympic Games, claiming that tenants in London are being priced out of their homes because landlords are increasing rent during the Olympics and Paralympics. The activist group ‘Anonymous’ posted a message on the official Torch Relay Facebook page; the message is mischievous rather than posing a direct threat but does indicate that the group is developing an anti-Olympic outlook. The first overview of the Counter Olympic Network meeting, which was held at Toynbee Hall, East London on 28/01/21, has been published. The ‘Save the Wanstead Flats’ campaign will continue its campaign. PROTEST: ‘Operation People for Peace’, in collaboration with ‘Gulf Change’ intend to visit London to participate in a non-violent direct action protesting BP's sponsorship of the 2012 Olympic Games. Details TBC.
31. OPERATION ELEMENT 17/02/12 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED:
IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES OLYMPICS ACTIVITY Small scale protest activity surrounding the Olympics continues to be reported. Rumours that the London homeless community are being encouraged to leave the city in preparation for the major sporting event are circulating within this community. INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES TENSION ASSESSMENT FOR UK COMMUNITIES HOMELESS COMMUNITY: Avon & Somerset reports that two homeless males claim that rough sleepers in London are being turned away in preparation for the London Olympics. A circulated rumour is that an unnamed police station will grant free onward travel and referral to the local probation office of intended destination. PROTEST ACTIVITY: - 01/03/12: Residents of Waltham Forest and Hackney intend to protest against the approval of the
Olympic Development Authority to erect two basketball courts on public land. - 24/03/12: Games Monitor is planning a meeting, whereby activists opposing the Olympics will join
to discuss protest strategies.
32. OPERATION ELEMENT 24/02/12 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED: IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES
OLYMPICS ACTIVITY MPS/BTP reports that EDL groups may wish to protest at the Olympic Park if planning permission goes ahead for a mosque at the site. Local concerns have been voiced in both Surrey and Dorset linked to the Road Cycling event at Box Hill and a temporary traveller site at Dorchester. INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES TENSION ASSESSMENT FOR UK COMMUNITIES ROAD CYCLING: Tensions are ongoing linked to the Olympic Road Cycling event in Box Hill, Surrey. Concerns have been raised linked to limited road access. Local shopkeepers have also expressed concerns about loss of business. OPEN SOURCE - VIDEO: The ‘Egypt Wake Up-Project’ forum’s Facebook page1 features a link to a video claiming the Illuminati were planning a Zionist attack on the Olympics2. Over 700 people have ‘liked’ the video, a number of whom appear to have an ‘anti-West’ agenda. PAINT DAMAGE: MPS has reported that paint bombs have been thrown at a mural sponsored by Coca-Cola in Tower Hamlets. It is unknown if this is an attack directed at the sponsor or towards the Olympics or both. TEMPORARY TRAVELLER SITE: Dorset has highlighted open source reporting which details local concerns over a proposed temporary traveller site near Dorchester during the Olympic Sailing events in Weymouth. DL INTEREST: MPS/BTP have reported that EDL groups have shown anger towards the construction of a Mosque at the Olympic site. If planning permission is granted EDL are expected to protest within the Park on the opening ceremony. OPEN SOURCE DIGEST DORCHESTER - Council cause upset over Olympic gypsy site plans Plans for a temporary gypsy site near Dorchester… Viewfrompublishing, 20/02/12.
33. OPERATION ELEMENT 02/03/12 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED:
IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES OLYMPICS ACTIVITY Fathers4Justice may attempt to scale the Mittal Tower within the Olympic Park, as part of their on-going campaign activities. INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES TENSION ASSESSMENT FOR UK COMMUNITIES
1 http://www.facebook.com/ArrivalsToTORA 2 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qfW7mMaVZI
CRIMINAL DAMAGE: Between 22-23/02/12, various BP branded advertising hoardings were damaged and were claimed on the website http://f-ingthefuture.org/. A number of similar incidents were claimed by activists; however, this is thought to have been hugely exaggerated. PROTEST ACTIVITY: It is anticipated that the protest group Fathers4Justice, will scale the Mittal Tower (Orbit Observation tower) on the Olympic Park. However, no time scale has been set as to when this might take place. OPEN SOURCE DIGEST UK - London 2012: Unite's Olympics strike threat condemned Suggestions from the leader of the UK's biggest union that workers could strike during the London Olympics... The Guardian 24/02/12 LONDON - London holds Olympic Games terror exercise London's emergency services started a major two-day training exercise on Wednesday simulating a terror attack... Channel News Asia 23/02/12
34. OPERATION ELEMENT 09/03/12 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED:
IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES OLYMPICS ACTIVITY Various protests associated with the Olympics continue to be reported. INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES TENSION ASSESSMENT FOR UK COMMUNITIES LEYTON MARSHES: A demonstration took place at Leyton Marshes on 01/03/12 in relation to the temporary Basketball training venue. A Facebook page used the tagline “Don’t be harsh, save the marsh.” It is believed this protest was related to perceptions that the construction and use of these venues will have adverse effects to not only the greens spaces but also the surrounding communities. UNITED CABBIES GROUP: On 29/02/12 70 black taxi cabs attended the Westfield Shopping Centre appearing to have broken down in disruptive locations. It is believed that the vehicles were taking part in protest activity targeting the Olympic Route Network. United Cabbies Group activity indicates the degree of concern already felt by business communities in relation to the Olympic Games and indeed for any community to be affected by the disruption of traffic flow/congestion in their locality. OCCUPY: WMP has reported that there is a new twitter page entitled “Occupy Olympics2012” and uses the Reclaim 2012 logo. Any proposed action undertaken by the group during the Games period appears to be aspirational at the current time. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] OCCUPY LSX: An Occupy LSX Facebook post suggests the Occupy movement is preparing to use the Games as an opportunity to promote their cause. MPS reports that it has previously been assessed that Occupy are attracted to high-profile events to publicise their messages, and this post further suggests they could use the Olympics as an opportunity to do this. It should be noted that whilst there is a lot of comment circulating, there has been very little action. 10/03/12: A march from Leyton Marshes has been planned on the same tagline “Don’t be harsh, save the marsh” (See evidenced section). Location/destination is unknown at this time.
35. OPERATION ELEMENT 16/03/12 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED:
IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES OLYMPICS ACTIVITY Dow Chemical continues to be subject to criticism, particularly after the Prime Minister’s support of the sponsorship. Occupy London have indicated a wish to move into spaces near the Olympic Park. Anjem CHOUDARY has spoken of the possibility of targeting the torch relay. In addition local ALM leafleting has been reported in the Stratford area, near the Olympic Park. INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES TENSION ASSESSMENT FOR UK COMMUNITIES The MPS and BTP have reported the distribution of leaflets in the Stratford area indicating a new ALM campaign theme. Both reports detailed leaflets calling Muslim police officers traitors and hypocrites and BTP reported that some leaflets contained images of three BTP officers. The MPS reported the distribution of these leaflets outside the Westfield centre and reported that they were offending Muslim community members. The contact address [email protected] is thought to be an ALM successor group, ‘Ahlus Sunnah wal Jamaah’. BTP reported the distribution of these leaflets at Stratford train station and that the MPS logo had been altered to ‘Man Made Law Police’ and ‘Working Together To Make You Kaafir’. Anjem CHOUDARY has spoken to media sources, claiming that ALM may target the Olympic Torch Relay as an opportunity to highlight their campaigns and gain publicity. There are no further details or specific intelligence. Additionally, reporting in the Evidenced section indicates likely ALM street activity in Stratford, in close proximity to the Olympic Park. Should such activity continue during Games time there is the potential for heightened tensions and attention from opposition groups e.g. the EDL. Similarly the focus on the police may also attract EDL attention, in defence of the police. DOW: Opposition and criticism towards Dow Chemical as an Olympic sponsor continues in Olympics focused online forums. David Cameron’s support for Dow Chemical has prompted discussion with some cynicism towards Cameron and the UK government on ‘Games Monitor’s’ message board.3 Links are also made to a wider story ‘exposing’ Culture Secretary Jeremy Hunt as having been the architect of Dow’s sponsorship4. The sponsorship is also negatively viewed by some community groups – the Hindu Forum of Britain responded negatively to a LOCOG email advertising job opportunities to various community groups. The forum replied that they would not be circulating any LOCOG information until they had met with LOCOG and Dow and achieved ‘a favorable outcome’. TRAINING CAMPS/VENUES: West Midland Police and key individuals from the Jamaican and West Indian community from Birmingham, Walsall and Wolverhampton have formed the ‘Jamaican Reference Group.’ The aim of the group is to discuss concerns with police around the Jamaican athletics team in Birmingham during the Olympics and the 50th anniversary of Jamaican Independence Day. ANTI-OLYMPICS WEBSITE: West Midlands Police has reported that the Twitter user ‘@OurOlympics has increased in followers from last week. The Twitter page entitled ‘Occupy London2012’ is receiving an average of 20 tweets per day. The group have now also set up a website (www.ourolympics.org) where they are advertising their campaign and asking for ideas and donations in order to carry out their demonstrations against London 2012. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31]
3 http://uk.groups.yahoo.com/group/gamesmonitor/message/5360 4 http://trialbyjeory.wordpress.com/2012/03/13/dow-chemical-wrap-sponsorship-was-jeremy-hunts-own-idea/
CON: The CON website has posted a call out to anyone who is interested in actions relating to ‘Zil Lanes’ (Olympic VIP lanes) The posting makes reference to the impact the lanes will have on local users and the dangerous affect it will have on cyclists. It references potential action to ‘take over’ these lanes. OPEN SOURCE DIGEST UK- Small Syrian team for London Games has full IOC support Syria will be present at the London Olympics... Reuters 13/03/12 UK - A "perfect storm" for fresh riots: Security expert's London 2012 Olympics warning A security expert has warned... The Mirror 10/03/12 UK - Row rages over defence missiles at Shooter's Hill An MP has hit out at defence ministry plans to install surface-to-air missiles in his constituency during the Olympics... Reuters 14/03/12
36. OPERATION ELEMENT 23/03/12 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED:
IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES TENSION ASSESSMENT FOR UK COMMUNITIES OPEN SOURCE – GAMES MONITOR: ‘Games Monitor’ covers a disparate range of stories reporting the successful handing over of the official ‘anti-Olympics torch’ in Glasgow on 16/03/125, one article argues that Muslims should boycott the Games because official caterers are not providing halal meat6. It is possible that this could lead to raised tensions within the Muslim staff and Olympic community should halal meat not be available to break Ramadan fasting which will occur during the Olympic period. ANONYMOUS: Anonymous have posted a video highlighting their concerns over an increase in police legislation during this period which may affect civil rights. This video also mentions the 27/07/12 (the London 2012 opening ceremony) which may be a date for a demo. GRAFFITI: Graffiti has been reported at the Westfield shopping centre at Stratfield highlighting the costs of building the centre. Although not explicitly stated, this may be trying to draw attention to the cost during times of austerity particularly with the current media reporting of the London 2012 spending exceeding their budget. 14/04/12: The Counter Olympic Network’s (CON) website has advertised that their next meeting will be at Bishopsgate Institute for Adults. CON continues to act as an umbrella group for those who are opposed to the Games or wish to use the Games to further their own agenda. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] OPEN SOURCE - 24/03/12: ‘Games Monitor’ is advertising a ‘CARP gentrification tour’ to show the negative impact of the Olympic Games on Stratford7. SPONSORS: NDEU has reported the potential for raised tensions relating to two sponsors:
5 http://www.gamesmonitor.org.uk/node/1535 6 http://uk.groups.yahoo.com/group/gamesmonitor/message/5382 7 http://uk.groups.yahoo.com/group/gamesmonitor/message/5384
- Dow Chemicals intend to supply ten representatives as torch bearers which could lead to disruption along the route by groups opposing Dow’s status as an Olympic sponsor.
- BMW has been identified as suppliers of up to 4000 vehicles which could be the focus of soft targeting by Olympic activists during storage or whilst in transit.
OPEN SOURCE DIGEST Security – MI5 briefs Cabinet amid fears of attack outside London Terrorists could target Olympics venues outside of London in a plot to attack spectators and athletes at this summer’s Games, security sources have warned...Telegraph 21/03/12 Terrorism - Security forces warn of 'credible threat' by IRA to launch terrorist attack as Olympic torch tours nation. Security forces fear Irish Republicans are plotting a devastating attack when the Olympic Torch tours the nation...People.co.uk 18/03/12
37. OPERATION ELEMENT 30/03/12 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED:
IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES OLYMPICS ACTIVITY Occupy protesters have set up camp on Leyton Marshes, which has recently been subject to much protest activity. School visits to training sessions have been cited as a potential for disorder to occur to settle school rivalries amongst pupils. INTELLIGENCE REQUIRED IR 2012 OLYMPICS AND PARALYMICS GAMES TENSION ASSESSMENT FOR UK COMMUNITIES CYCLE EVENT: Surrey report that local community tensions are still apparent with regards to forthcoming cycling events associated with the Olympics taking place in the Boxhill area. The main grievance voiced by the local community refers to the volume of cyclists using the race route. Local engagement is continuous. OCCUPY CAMP: Protesters have camped on Leyton Marshes in an attempt to prevent a temporary Olympic training centre being built. Around 20 people have set up tents to stop diggers starting work on a basketball court, car park and holding area on public land off Lea Bridge Road. The plan was approved by Waltham Forest Council despite a petition opposing the plan signed by 1,250 people. The protesters are a mix of local residents and members of the Occupy London movement. OLYMPIC COMPETITORS: The International Olympic Committee has announced that members of Syria’s National Committee are allowed to attend the London 2012 Olympic Games, despite the political and civil instability in Syria. Ahmad HAMSHO has qualified to represent Syria in the equestrian contest and there is potential for protest activity at the Olympic Equestrian venue. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] SCHOOL DISORDER: WMP report that proposals to allow West Midlands school pupils to visit Alexander Stadium and Birmingham University to view the USA and Jamaican training sessions, may be used by rival schools to engage in disorder. PROTEST CAMPAIGN: New Fathers for Justice (NF4J) continue to express their intent to disrupt the Olympic Games as part of their campaign for equal rights for fathers. NF4J have added an Olympic tab on their website. OPEN SOURCE DIGEST
International – Syrian athletes will attend London Olympics, says British PM Syrian athletes will be allowed to attend this summer's London Olympics… CNN 29/03/12 LONDON - Tension with police among reasons for riots Existing tensions between police and the community, flamed by stop and search tactics... Croydon Guardian 28/03/12 Protest – St Paul’s protesters threatens Olympics Security at the Olympic Park was stepped up last night after protesters who brought chaos to St Paul’s Cathedral halted work on a new venue... The Express 29/03/12
38. QUARTERLY OPERATION ELEMENT Q1 11/12 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 2012 OLYMPIC GAMES ACTIVITY Key issues this quarter were:
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] There was one report of increased tensions in relation to countries using training venues. An
e-mail was sent in relation to the Israeli Swimming Team using Corby swimming pool (Northamptonshire), expressing dislike of the team using the pool.
TENSION ASSESSMENT FOR UK COMMUNITIES There was also one report of an e-mail sent to an Olympic training venue to be used by an Israeli team which expressed opposition and made reference to Israelis as ‘terrorists’. This highlights the potential for Olympic venues and events associated with Israel to become a focus for pro-Palestine / anti-Israel activity. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] GRAFFITI: Reporting of graffiti at Olympic sites/test event sites has been consistent throughout this quarter. These offences have been directed at either the Olympic sports apparatus or the spectator areas. Two of these offences have stated ‘F**k Olympics’ or ‘F**K OLMPICS’ [sic]. It is believed that one of the offences is referring to recent traffic changes made as part of Olympic site development ahead of the Games. TRAINING VENUES / COUNTRY TARGETING: Reporting indicates one instance of potential increased tensions in relation to countries using training venues. An e-mail was sent in relation to the Israeli Swimming Team using Corby swimming pool (Northamptonshire), expressing dislike of the team using the pool. The e-mail described Israelis as ‘terrorists shooting children and women and torturing others’ and the implication is that the criticism is linked to issues related to Palestine. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] Further tensions regarding cycling around the Olympic Cycling route in Surrey may be experienced following two recent Road Traffic Collisions involving pedal cyclists. Community tensions following these incidents have increased around cycling in the area.
39. QUARTERLY OPERATION ELEMENT Q2 11/12 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 2012 OLYMPIC GAMES ACTIVITY There were few reports of heightened tensions experienced concerning Olympic activity. However, this is anticipated to increase as the Games approach. INTELLIGENCE REQUIREMENTS CIRCULATED Q2 2011/12
2012 OLYMPIC AND PARALYMPIC GAMES TENSION ASSESSMENT FOR UK COMMUNITIES There were few reports of heightened tensions experienced concerning Olympic activity. However, this is anticipated to increase as the Games approach. Of note, Dorset has reported various community concerns regarding disruption to day to day business and travel in the vicinity of Olympic sites – particularly access to public spaces which are now being incorporated in Olympic venues. Tensions have been reported regarding the Olympic Cycling Route in Richmond due to lack of consultation and lack of information in accessible formats. PROTEST ACTIVITY AT OLYMPIC VENUES: ‘No To Greenwich Olympic Equestrian Events’ (NOGOE) is a community action group whose members believe Greenwich Park (London) is an unsuitable venue for 2012 Olympic equestrian events and have concerns about the impact on the grounds and community. Open source reporting has highlighted NOGOE protest activity in this quarter in the lead up to the Olympic Test Event (04-06/07/11). xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] TARGETING OF OLYMPIC SPONSORS/OLYMPIC CONTRACTORS: Cambridge and Derbyshire8 both reported community tensions indirectly linked to the Olympics, one relating to criminal damage at a Lloyds TSB branch and one relating to a protest in Derby in response to the awarding of a major rail contract to Siemens over Bombardier, a local train company. Although neither incident has a direct link to the Olympics, both companies are Olympic sponsors. CRIMINAL DAMAGE: A recurring trend is the appearance of graffiti, albeit at a very low level. Essex, an Olympic force, reported the following graffiti on a shop window ‘only thing the Olympic games bring is more niggers to Chelmsford’9. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL EVENTS SUMMARY 2012 Olympics – The former independent reviewer of terrorism legislation described London as a global ‘hub’ for terrorism and talked of an increased risk of attack during the Olympics
8 Both non-Olympic forces 9 The Olympic Torch will visit Chelmsford and an Olympic Torch evening will be held in the town on 06/07/12.
40. QUARTERLY OPERATION ELEMENT Q3 11/12 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 2012 OLYMPIC GAMES ACTIVITY Q3 has seen a slight increase in Olympic-related tensions. However, despite this slight increase, the number of reports is still limited and all Q3 11/12 reporting was submitted by Olympic forces. INTELLIGENCE REQUIREMENTS CIRCULATED Q2 2011/12
2012 OLYMPIC AND PARALYMPIC GAMES TENSION ASSESSMENT FOR UK COMMUNITIES Q3 has seen a slight increase in Olympic-related tensions reported to the NCTT in all three areas of Experienced, Evidenced and Potential reporting. However, despite a slight increase, the number of reports is still limited and all Q3 11/12 reporting was submitted by Olympic forces. IMPACT ON GREEN SPACES: Local Open Source reporting in Waltham Forest has highlighted concerns over plans to build a temporary sports hall for Olympic athletes on Leyton Marshes. The concerns have been raised due to the environmental impact that the building and traffic will have on the marshes and the restrictions to other users. Concerns have previously been raised about Olympic buildings being built on green spaces within Leyton and Wanstead where the themes in tension include traffic congestion, loss of facilities and impact on the environment. SPONSOR PROTEST ACTIVITY: MPS has reported community tension in the form of small scale, peaceful, protest activity at the Goalball Test Event on 03/12/2011 where representatives from Black Triangle, Benefit Claimants Fight Back and Disabled People Against Cuts converged as part of ‘A Month of Festive Action Against Atos and the Benefit Cuts’. Atos is a Worldwide Olympic Partner, managing and securing the IT system that relays results, events and athlete information to spectators and media. Atos Healthcare has been awarded a government contract to provide assessment services for ‘fit to work’ decisions for people on sickness and disability benefits, and concern has been voiced by individuals who could lose Income Support due to reassessment. ROAD SAFETY/INCREASED FOOTFALL ON OLYMPIC ROUTE: The Olympic Road Cycling route has been the subject of evidenced tensions reported by Surrey linked to the safety of cyclists using the route ahead of the Games. It is believed that the Olympic Road Cycling route has experienced an increase in cyclists, with some cyclists not adhering to the Highway Code. This has increased tensions between cyclists and other road users and has led to a report to police of an outburst by a road user towards a group of cyclists. TRAINING CAMPS: NCTT has experienced historic reporting about the potential for increased tensions related to Olympic teams choosing a particular location to train. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31]
41. NATIONAL COMMUNITY IMPACT ASSESSMENT: LONDON 2012 OLYMPIC TORCH RELAY (JULY 2011)
PURPOSE The purpose of this document is to : Provide background information regarding the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay; Provide an overview of associated community tensions intelligence in relation to the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay Provide an assessment of potential risks associated with the community tensions (both the likelihood of each risk occuring and the potential impact); Provide a menu of options/recommendations for mitigating potential risks. OVERVIEW OF THE 2012 OLYMPIC TORCH RELAY The London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay is the transference of the Olympic Flame from Olympia, Greece where the Ancient Olympic Games were held, to the stadium of the hosting city for the current Olympic Games10. The London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay will take place prior to the commencement of the London 2012 Olympic Games and will run from the 18/05/12 until 27/07/12. The Relay will last for 70 days with 8,000 people participating in carrying the Olympic Flame 300 metres each during the relay. A Torch Bearer nomination process has commenced across the UK giving members of the public an opportunity to participate. All Torch Bearers will undergo a selection process and at least 50% will be aged between 12 and 24. The London 2012 Olympic Torch Route has been planned so that 95% of the UK’s population will be within an hour’s travel of the Olympic Torch. Submissions were made to regional government and the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games (LOCOG) by Local Authorities regarding ideas for events to celebrate the Olympic Torch passing through their areas. The London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay has three sponsors (Presenting Partners), Lloyds TSB, Samsung and Coca-Cola. In addition, there are a further 6 supporting partners of the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay: Aggreko, BMW, BT, EDF, Holiday Inn and Visa. It is anticipated that there will be a great deal of public interest in the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay and it is expected that celebrities will become involved with the series of Relay events along with the general public. The Olympic Torch will be protected by an MPS-led team who will travel with the Olympic Torch. It will be the responsibility of the local police services and Local Authorities to oversee policing and security measures pertaining to the Torch Relay route, associated events, management of spectators and participants. Events are being planned across the country to celebrate and welcome the Olympic Torch. On the occasions where the Olympic Torch will spend an overnight stay, it is anticipated that planned events will be held on a larger scale. In addition to this Community Impact Assessment (CIA), an NCTT Intelligence Requirement has been produced in relation to the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games and will shortly be disseminated.
OVERVIEW OF CURRENT AND POTENTIAL COMMUNITY TENSION INTELLIGENCE ASSOCIATED WITH THE LONDON 2012 OLYMPIC TORCH RELAY xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] Local Community Concerns Limited local community concerns have been reported to date pertaining to the London 2012 Olympic Games and more specifically, the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay. Again, reports are expected to increase once London 2012 Olympic Games time approaches. London 2012 Olympic Games venues and infrastructures have resulted in some opposition from local communities, such tensions could be an indication that local people are unclear of the long-term benefits that will be available to them as a result of the London 2012 Olympic Games11. 10 Open Source 11 OPC
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] ....graffiti discovered in Dorset, a local anti-London 2012 Olympic Games protest group has caused criminal damage at the equestrian events site in Greenwich Park and opposition amongst local community members has arisen in relation to the proposed MPS muster centre at Wanstead Flats. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] Although no intelligence to date has been received to indicate a rise in tensions pertaining to security measures, they have historically caused hostility from various organisations and communiities and caused a rise in community tensions. NCTT reporting has highlighted concens about security and surveillence issues such as Stop and Search measures targeting specific communities or professions. Recent examples of reporting on this issue include, negative community reaction to CCTV installation in Birmingham (Project Champion) reported and a Dispatches programme, which was recently broadcast, highlighting violence and hostility in some Madrassas received some negative criticism pertaining to the scrutinty and surveillence of Muslim communities. Austerity Measures The impact of the Government’s austerity measures are beginning to be felt, particularly amongst public sector employees and service users. Some counties declined to submit ideas and nominations for the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay or enter their areas into regional government and LOCOG regarding London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay celebrations, on the grounds of cost implications surrounding the hosting of related activities. Any reporting in the media in relation to the cost of the London 2012 Olympic Games and associated events could be linked to austerity measures including redundancies, and may increase the likelihood of protest activity pertaining to this issue during the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay. There has been an increase in protest activity recently in relation to the government’s austerity measures, and this could well continue during London 2012 Olympic Games time. Furthermore, historically British Jobs for British Workers directed activity specifically at the Olympic Park site and raised concerns about the number of British construction workers employed on the site in Stratford. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] The current economic climate internationally and the European austerity measures being implemented could mean there is a possibility of European protesters converging with British protesters. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay Sponsors As previously mentioned, the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay has three Presenting Partners (Sponsors) and six Supporting Partners (see section 2.2). There is the risk that some London 2012 Olympic Games and London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay sponsors will attract protest activity during Games time, due to their perceived connection to and/or their association with contentious issues. Coca Cola has attracted negative attention with the international campaign ‘Killer Coke’ engaging in activities against the company. Previous negative campaign activity has taken place during Olympic Torch Relays. It should be noted thay Coca Cola have entered into a three year partnership with Streetgames, with a remit of improving sport related opportunities for young people. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] Samsung has received fairly limited protest and campaign activity, although previously the company has attracted negative activity in relation to environmental issues by Greenpeace. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] Lloyds TSB have experienced protest activity directed at its banking outlets by animal rights protesters, those against Lloyds TSB providing banking facilities for Qinetiq and recently protests attributed to anti austerity measure protesters. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31]
The following are two examples of negative activity directed toward an Olympic sponsor: BP is a major target for several environmental campaign groups and activists are aware of the company’s sponsorship of the London 2012 Olympic Games. In September 2010 the BT sponsored ‘British Olympic Ball’ at the Grosvenor House, London was targeted due to the company’s links to the telecommunications supplier providing services to Israeli checkpoints, military bases and settlements in the Palestinian territories. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] Banks have recently experienced protest actvity pertaining to Government ‘bail outs’ and the recent publication of annual profits and payment of bonuses. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] NDEU are currently finalising details in relation to the deployments of Public Order Policing Section officers during this period. International Tensions and Conflicts With the diverse make up of towns and cities across the country, international tensions and conflicts could result in protest activity at the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay, and subsequently impact on community tensions. During the 2008 Beijing Games the conflict between Russia and Georgia emerged and impacted upon Games security. International issues that arise have the potential to cause large scale protests in the UK. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] Following on from this, Northamptonshire has reported that a threatening email has been sent to the training venue of the Israeli swimming team. Furthermore, the London 2012 Olympic Games will see the 40th anniversary of the death of 11 Israeli athletes at the 1972 Munich Olympic Game. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] Reporting from police forces also suggest an increase in community tensions in this country, pertaining to the political unrest currently being experienced in the Middle East and North Africa. This has resulted in protest and demonstration activity across the country and outside embassies in London. It is possible that any participating countries associated with any controversial issues may become subject of protest activity which may target the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay. SPECIFIC RISKS xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] RECOMMENDATIONS FOR POLICING The following recommendations are intended to equip local forces and the police service nationally to become aware of rising tension at the earliest moment. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] Option 1 Understand and document communities and associated tensions prevalent within London
2012 Olympic Torch Relay route: Establish the make-up of communities and identify vulnerable locations, premises and businesses. Seek to identify those individuals and groups who may be drawn into protest or counter protest activity. Liaise with OIC and NCTT to obtain national products to assist.
Ensure an understanding of existing issues and tensions. Hate crime levels should be closely monitored as indicators of community tensions and robustly investigated. Monitor websites, blogs and forums. Ensure an awareness of local events or critical incidents which may impact on a protest or trigger events or tensions. Develop a database of key contacts, key premises, businesses, vulnerable locations, relevant partner agencies. In light of the above picture, create Community Impact Assessments at force and/or divisional level. Monitor international, national and local events for impact on tensions.
2 Undertake proactive community engagement to understand concerns and reassure communities: Seek broad ranging advice before engaging in operations which might affect communities. A reassurance strategy should be developed jointly with partners and communities. The Olympic Relations Team can be utilised as a UK resources to assist with community engagement pertaining to the London 2012 Olympic Games. Neighbourhood Policing Teams and PREVENT staff should be tasked via the National Intelligence Model process (e.g. TTCG meetings) to engage with and reassure communities and gather community intelligence, as deemed appropriate at a local level. This intelligence should be used to identify and task further reassurance activity. Monitor websites, blogs and forums. If appropriate, consider police and partner attendance at inter race, inter faith and inter community meetings/debates at senior to junior levels. Through intelligence channels forces should identify local individuals who have previously been involved in protest activity to allow interventions. Any offences committed should be subject to thorough investigation. It is important that communities trust that police will seek to prosecute any person seen to break the law. This is particularly true of protests where a transparent and publicised post-event investigation will reassure communities as much as any pre-event messaging (although where an offence is particularly sensitive e.g. attack at a mosque, police should use the advice of community leaders as to how much publicity should be undertaken). Successful prosecution and the use of preventative measures like ASBOs may also reduce further criminal activity. Consideration should be given to charging with aggravating factors where appropriate. Where religiously or racially aggravated offences have occurred, ensure these are recorded accurately and appropriately, in compliance with Hate Crime policy.
3 Create and manage a consistent communications strategy: A media strategy and key messages should be formulated and delivered jointly with partners and communities. Early engagement with local media is recommended. Consider the use of minority community media as well as local and national press. Key messages should also be delivered by local officers. Dissemination of RICU community media articles should be undertaken if written. In addition, advice can be sought from the Olympic Community Communications Manager. Consideration should be given to using trusted community contacts to impart police messages for reassurance and to maintain the trust and confidence of communities. It is important to identify individuals who can act as credible communicators and influencers.
When formulating key messages consult with force lay advisers, statutory partners and local communities, going beyond the usual contacts and engaging with youth and women in particular. Consideration should be taken to reassure communities who may be disproportionately impacted. Consider engaging with specialist media, to ensure communities are informed of developments. Ensure strong lines of communication with Independent Advisory Groups (IAGs), Neighbourhood Action Group (NAGs) and community contacts so messages can be relayed quickly and efficiently e.g. in event of ‘flash’ protest. Local MPs and local government representatives should also be briefed. Key messages should include information on: what the police are dealing with; police powers and responsibilities under the Human Rights Act; information about the reporting, recording and investigation of hate crimes e.g. third party reporting. Establish clear media contact points at local and force level in order to impart police messages and refute any rumours Monitor online media and communications so that feelings and tensions can be monitored and responded to appropriately and timely.
4 National co-ordination of information and intelligence: Ensure strong liaison and communication channels between Force Olympic SPOCs and the OIC. Ensure local Tension Monitoring SPOC and Prevent SPOCs are feeding into the Force Olympic SPOCs and helping to inform any Olympic related assessments that are made at a local level. Hold regular Force Olympic Intelligence meetings, with relevant stakeholders (including local Tension Monitoring SPOC). Provide briefings to staff so that they are aware of the requirements pertaining to the submission of Olympics related information and intelligence. Ensure Olympic related Intelligence Requirements are communicated widely (as appropriate) within Forces. Ensure Force Olympic SPOCs are sharing information with local Tension Monitoring SPOC. Monitor online sites, blogs and forums to monitor: Community feeling Protesters’ subscriptions and comments Effectively address offending online material (guidance can be sought from the CTIRU) Provide NCTT with details of any incidents or tensions that become apparent within communities at a Force or National level that are exceptional to any existing tensions or any incident that can be directly attributed to the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay.
CAVEAT This assessment will need to be revised in the light of any new information and is based on the experience and opinion of the authors not the bodies they represent. National Community Tension Team ACPO [email protected] xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31]
42. NATIONAL COMMUNITY IMPACT ASSESSMENT: LONDON 2012 OLYMPIC
& PARALYMPIC GAMES (JANUARY 2012) PURPOSE The purpose of this document is to:
1.1.1. Provide a focus on how the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games and associated activity will impact on local communities taking into account existing and emerging tensions which may or may not have been intensified by Olympics activity, this will be done by: Providing background information regarding the London 2012 Olympic and
Paralympic Games; Providing an overview of current and potential community tensions either directly
associated with the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games or unlinked tensions which could occur in the lead up, during or post-Games which have been exacerbated by Olympic activity/temperature;
Providing an assessment of potential risks associated with the community tensions (both the likelihood of each risk occurring and the potential impact);
Providing a menu of options/recommendations for mitigating potential risks. OVERVIEW OF THE LONDON 2012 OLYMPIC GAMES On 06/07/05, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced that the Games of the XXXth Olympiad in 2012 was awarded to London. The London 2012 Games will comprise of four consecutive events;
The Olympic Torch Relay (18/05-27/07/12), London 2012 Olympic Games (27/07 – 12/08/12), The Paralympic Torch Relay (which will follow the Olympics Games Closing Ceremony between 24-29/08/12) and The London 2012 Paralympic Games (29/08/-09/09/12).
This CIA will consider the Olympic Games period 27/07-09/09/12, for details on community tensions which may affect the Torch Relay, please refer to the NCTT Torch Relay CIA. The Olympic and Paralympic Games will have 11 Worldwide sponsors, 7 Official Partners, (Domestic Tier One), 7 Official Supporters (Domestic Tier Two) and 31 Official Suppliers and Providers (Domestic Tier Three). There are 5 Worldwide Partners of the Paralympic Movement and 3 Offical Partners of the Paralympic Games (Domestic Tier One).
205 countries will be represented with 204 National Olympic Committees. There will be 771 medal events, 14,700 athletes, 7,500 team officials and 30,000 technical officials. 9.1 million tickets have been produced for events at 34 different venues accross the UK over 28 days of competition. It is anticipated that 800,000 visitors will use public transport on the Olympics’ busiest day, 55,000 Olympic family will utilise the Olympic Route Network, and there will be a 115 day policing operation to cover both the Torch relays and Games.
Prior to both the Olympic Flame Torch Relay and Olympic and Paralympic Games commencing, athletes from participating countries will be utilising training venues and accomodation across the country.
In addition to the Olympic sporting events, there will be a number of Live Site locations in city centres designed to engage with the whole of the UK and help create local celebrations at Games time. These sites will offer information, video, news and community events via large screens, jointly funded by LOCOG, local councils and the BBC and run in partnership with BT, Lloyds TSB and CISCO.
Work is underway for the construction of Games’ infrastructure at Olympic venues across the country in preparation for the Games including consideration to increased footfall and traffic. The Olympic
Route Network has already been announced following ODA/partner consultation with local communities.12
In addition to this Community Impact Assessment (CIA), a NCTT Intelligence Requirement has been produced and disseminated to forces in relation to the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
OVERVIEW OF CURRENT AND POTENTIAL COMMUNITY TENSIONS
In order to identify and understand the current and potential community tensions due to London 2012 Games activity or that could occur at the same time as the London 2012 Games, an assessment is provided of current community tensions:
COMMUNITY TENSION ARISING DUE TO OLYMPIC ACTIVITY: Currently the NCTT has had limited Olympic activity reporting that has had an impact on communities. The following themes explore the present community temperature in relation to Olympic activity.
NOGOE: ‘No To Greenwich Olympic Equestrian Events’ (NOGOE) is a community action group whose members believe that Greenwich Park, London is not a suitable venue for the 2012 Olympic equestrian events and have concerns over the impact on the grounds and the community.13 Recent NOGOE protest activity was prompted by the Olympic Test Event and also by the communication of parking restrictions. This has resulted in small scale demonstrations taking place at the park and participants lobbying individuals as they enter and leave the site.
EAST LONDON COMMUNITY GROUPS: Community and Police reporting has highlighted activity by a group called ‘Take Back Wanstead Flats’. This is a community action group whose members are in opposition to a planned police muster point at the Wanstead Flats location. The group’s activity has an online element designed to recruit support for their cause. ‘Take Back Wanstead Flats’ most recent protest activity was a protest on 21/11/11 at Wanstead Flats and a protest outside the High Court on 05/12/11. There has also been wider open source reporting detailing similar community action groups in Leyton, Leyton Marshes and Wanstead Flats linked to the ODA submitting planning application for a series of Olympic buildings. Community concern is based on the fear that construction and use of these buildings will have an “adverse impact on traffic congestion”, “loss of existing indoor and outdoor sport,” and will put “additional pressure on an important wildlife habitat.”14 NUCLEAR TRAINS ACTION GROUP (NTAG): NTAG is a protest group linked to the cessation of nuclear product use and NCTT reporting has highlighted NTAG protest activity in front of Stratford Station and on trains on the Highbury and Islington line triggered by the announcement by the company which transport nuclear waste through London suspending trains through the Olympic Games period. There is the potential for NTAG activity to increase and it is anticipated that the group will try and push for a complete cessation of nuclear trains post-Olympics. UNAUTHORISED ENCAMPMENTS: NCTT reporting has highlighted tension where planned encampments by spectators congregating to watch the Olympic Games. NCTT received reporting from Essex linked to a planned convergance by a local caravan club to watch the Games. This caused increased tensions in the area resulting in numerous letters of complaint and a peaceful protest outside the local Parish Council offices. Similar concern has been raised after the Royal Wedding in April 2011 where “Camp Royale” was established on Clapham Common. A community group launched a petition to be presented to the Lambeth Council to highlight the need for improved consultation with the local communities and raise awareness to the potential environmental damage of this type of encampment.15 There is the potential that this could remain an issue, or escalate during Games time.
12 http://www.london2012.com/olympic-route-network/orn-impact-assessment.pdf 13 http://www.nogoe2012.com/ 14 http://www.savewansteadflats.org.uk/images/stories/downloads/Planning_Objection_Flyer.pdf 15http://www.streathamguardian.co.uk/news/9024527.Petition_raised_against__over_commercialisation__of_Clapham_Commo
n/
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] UNITED CABBIES GROUP: The United Cabbies Group is a group which was established in opposition of the exclusivity of Olympics Games Lanes during the Games. United Cabbies activity has tended to coincide with other protest activity such as the TUC National Day of Action in November 2011 and it is likely that they will target days when other protest activity will occur. United Cabbies Group activity indicates the degree of concern already felt by business communities in relation to the Olympic Games and indeed for any community to be affected by the disruption of traffic flow/congestion in their locality. NCTT reporting has highlighted protest groups that have used infrastructure to draw attention to their causes for example Father4Justice and fuel blockades. ORN WIDER IMPACT: Open source scanning mirrors similar sentiments highlighting concerns linked to the impact of Olympic-related measures such as the Olympic Route Network to local services for example the inability to continue day to day routine/worship, inability to use facilities which are normally used e.g. public transport, roads, inability to use services which are needed to survive e.g. carers/meals on wheels/housebound individuals, emergency services and police abstraction. More specific force reports are expected as the Games approach. OLYMPIC SPENDING: Although no reports have been submitted by forces in relation to the cost of the Olympics during times of austerity, there has been tension documented in Open Source reporting which could have an impact. The temperature of open source reporting has focused on the over-expenditure on the Olympics, failure to get tickets/jobs and the perception that the Games are a ‘moneyed Olympics’ with the belief that it appears to sit at odds with the current economic situation.16 Specific reporting focuses on the rise in Olympic spending on the Opening and Closing Ceremonies and also the cost of Olympic venue security where it has exceeded the 2010 Spending Review baseline. For example, reporting has highlighted that the cost of Venue Security has risen from 282 to 553 million and the extra funding from the Olympic public funding package has been reallocated for the Opening and Closing Ceremonies.17 While this reporting is mainly sourced from media, similar sentiments may become more widely articulated in community reporting as the Games becomes more visible. This could be in reinforcement to other forms of protest activity such as local issues. GRAFFITI: Several forces (Dorset, Essex) have reported incidents of graffiti that are linked to the Olympics. In some cases there has been no clear indication as to the reason for graffiti however in other cases the graffiti has been located close to Olympic sites and has indicated anti-Olympic sentiment.
COMMUNITY TENSIONS - OLYMPIC SPONSORS: Intelligence submitted to the NCTT has only indicated increased community tensions linked to two Olympic sponsors:
DOW CHEMICAL: Dow Chemical has attracted substantial media attention in relation to their sponsorship of the Games and there is the potential for their association to the Bhopal chemical disaster to further impact on community tensions, for example among diaspora Asian communities in the UK. Community tension linked to this has already manifested itself in limited protest activity seen at Canary Wharf in December 2011. ATOS: While previous protest activity seen at ATOS buildings has been due to its provision of assessment services for ‘fit to work’ decisions for people on sickness and disability benefits, NCTT reporting shows that there is an added awareness of ATOS’ status as an Olympic sponsor which has been shown in the location of where affected individuals choose to protest.
16 For a flavour of OSINT on this matter see: http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/olympics/16060634.stm http://www.independent.co.uk/opinion/letters/letters-cost-of-the-2012-olympics-2328678.html, http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-cornwall-14670614, http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/olympics/8873715/London-2012-Olympics-Government-spends-nearly-750k-on-Olympic-tickets.html. 17 http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-16030785, To see official spending figures refer to: http://www.culture.gov.uk/images/publications/DCMS_GOE_QR_Dec_2011.pdf.
This has been evidenced in a small scale, peaceful, protest at the Goalball Test Event in 2011 where representatives from Black Triangle, Benefit Claimants Fight Back, and Disabled People Against Cuts (DPAC) converged as part of “A Month of Festive Action Against Atos and the Benefit Cuts”.
COMMUNITY TENSIONS - PROTEST ACTIVITY OF NOTE: The following themes cover protest activity of note which has impacted upon communities:
AUGUST 2011 DISORDER AND ASSOCIATED TENSIONS: The UK disorder in August 2011 has shown that a very localised incident (death of Mark DUGGAN 06/08/2011) and subsequent community reaction can act as a catalyst for disorder in other areas and exacerbate underlying tensions already felt in communities. This could have an impact on Olympic events and associated activity and sites. For example, during the disorder the Volleyball test event times were brought forward so that spectators could leave before any anticipated disorder activity. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] NCTT reporting during the disorder highlighted that some communities started to take their own precautions linked to the protection of their homes, families, businesses and other property signifying a fear for security. Tensions between African Caribbean and Asian communities in the West Midlands are still being reported as a result of the deaths of three Asian males protecting their businesses, impacting on existing Asian/African-Caribbean tensions. The disorder also prompted both the RW and EDL to advertise “clear-up” and protection campaigns which were advertised via social media websites. DEFENCE LEAGUE (DL) ACTIVITY: Recent DL activity has seen campaign and recruitment activity, national protests in Birmingham and Tower Hamlets, counter protest activity, boycotting, countering a Shariah Zone campaign by Muslims Against Crusades (MAC) and a ‘Mosque Busters’ campaign. The EDL has also staged a counter protest in reaction to MAC attendance outside of the US Embassy on 11/09/11 thus incorporating an indirect international aspect to DL protest. The impact of counter protest to DL activity is especially significant when looking at Scottish Defence League (SDL) activity. Reporting has shown that when there has been a proposed demonstration by the SDL it has been met with a larger UAF counter protest, outnumbering the SDL protestors. In some cases when significant UAF counter protest has occurred, increased friction between DL and UAF protestors has led to disorder and arrests. There has been a significant impact on a number of communities when DL activity has taken place such as fear in Muslim/Asian/Middle Eastern/African communities, more involvement by communities such as participating in counter-protest by some trade union groups or general tensions linked to fear for personal safety, disruption caused due to increased footfall/noise pollution and other congestion related issues. MUSLIMS AGAINST CRUSADES (MAC) ACTIVITY: Prior to proscription, MAC activity saw campaign and protests in Tower Hamlets and Kensington. Recent ‘Islamic Emirates’, “Hell for Heroes” and the more historic “Butchers of Basra” campaigns all drew counter protest from the EDL. MAC activity has garnered significant media coverage and online commentary due to their provocative use of emotive imagery and slogans as well as choosing specific times of year for maximum impact, for example the poppy burning in 2010 occurred around the time of Remembrance Day. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] OCCUPY: The ‘Occupy Wall Street’ campaign in the US has been replicated in towns and cities in the UK, most notably in London outside of St Paul’s cathedral. This particular campaign group has received notable media attention given the protest location and the Church of England’s stance regarding the issue. The Occupy movement has impacted on communities where there have been significant encampments such as Newcastle, Manchester and others as the locations have typically been central town squares and other focal points. Notably, both the Newcastle and St Pauls encampments experienced EDL attacks. While ‘Occupy’ activity is largely linked to activists rather than wider communities,
their focus on economic and social inequality engenders a sympathetic response among wider communities. This has been demonstrated in the support from some in the Church of England. As such there remains potential for Occupy activity to attract wider community support. PUBLIC SECTOR PROTEST ACTIVITY: NCTT has received numerous reports of strike action and associated activity, the most recent was a TUC National Day of Action on 30/11/11 over public sector pensions. This activity has had an impact on the wider community as it has attracted public sector workers and members of the community who are sympathetic to the cause rather than just activists. It has also disrupted communities where schools and other facilities have closed due to strike action. The government’s most recent public sector pension offer was rejected by the Unite union and has warned that strikes could continue during the Olympic Games.18
COMMUNITY TENSIONS LINKED TO INTERNATIONAL TENSIONS AND CONFLICTS: Intelligence submitted to the NCTT has indicated increased tensions among a number of communities in relation to the international unrest, sectarian issues and and other themes:
UNREST IN THE MIDDLE EAST AND NORTH AFRICA: International tensions and conflicts have the potential to impact on local communities. This has been highlighted in NCTT reporting recently of the unrest in the Middle East and North Africa. Events in both Libya and Syria have had an impact on the Libyan and Syrian communities resident in the UK and this impact has caused tension and resulted in heightened concern and protest activity in city centres and at other locations such as universities. In a similar vein, there has been protest activity relating to the Israel/Palestine conflict where pro-Palestinian groups have promoted the boycotting of Israeli produce. This boycott has taken the form of protest activity in the city centre or criminal damage at Israeli businesses/buildings. When protest has taken place outside of premises selling Israeli produce there have been reports of comments which could be interpreted as anti-Semitic.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] SECTARIAN/OFFENSIVE BEHAVIOUR AT FOOTBALL MATCHES: In April-June 2011 there was a spate of sectarian incidents specifically linked to football in Glasgow such as sectarian chanting/singing, assault and online abuse indicating the potential for ongoing community tensions. Scottish legislation has been passed under the Offensive Behaviour at Football and Threatening Communications (Scotland) Bill19 to introduce new penalties to tackle sectarianism. This new law aims to tackle disorder around football matches and internet hate postings. In the wider UK football arena, open source reporting continuously highlights incidents where football fans have made offensive chants during games and whilst travelling back from matches which has the potential to affect the transient community and also the residential community close to the match location.
SPECIFIC RISKS
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31]
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR POLICING
The following recommendations are intended to equip local forces and the police service nationally to become aware of rising tension at the earliest moment xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31]
Option 1 Understand and document communities and associated tensions prevalent
in Olympic forces and at Live Site locations: Establish the make-up of communities and identify vulnerable locations, premises
18 http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-16431284 19http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/S4_Bills/Offensive%20Behaviour%20at%20Football%20and%20Threatening%20Communications%20(Scotland)%20Bill/b1bs4-aspassed.pdf
and businesses. Seek to identify those individuals and groups who may be drawn into protest or counter protest activity directly and indirectly to the Olympics. Liaise with OIC and NCTT to obtain national products to assist. Ensure an understanding of visiting Olympic teams and potential tensions that could arise from their use of venues/accommodation via consultation with the OIC, OPC, force Olympic planning department and other relevant units. Ensure an understanding of existing issues and tensions. Hate crime levels should be closely monitored as indicators of community tensions and robustly investigated. Check force Hate crime statistics and consult with NCTT Hate Crime reports. Forces are encouraged to ensure they are aware of all local community events that are due to take place during the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, both Olympic and non-Olympic related. This will help ensure that appropriate policing arrangements can be put in place without alienating local communities. Ensure an awareness of critical incidents which may impact on a protest or trigger events or tensions. Develop a database of key contacts, key premises, businesses, vulnerable locations, relevant partner agencies. In light of the above picture, create specific 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games Community Impact Assessments at force and/or divisional level referring to NCTT documents and guidance. Monitor international, national and local events for impact on tensions.
2 Undertake proactive community engagement to understand concerns and reassure communities: Seek broad ranging advice before engaging in operations which might affect communities. A reassurance strategy should be developed jointly with OPC, partners and communities. Neighbourhood Policing Teams and PREVENT staff should be tasked via the National Intelligence Model process (e.g. TTCG meetings) to engage with and reassure communities and gather community intelligence. This intelligence should be used to identify and task further reassurance activity. If appropriate, consider police and partner attendance at inter race, inter faith and inter community meetings/debates at senior to junior levels. It is advisable to provide opportunities for young people who may have strong feelings about the issues to express themselve. Engagement work should encompass schools to avoid polarisation within communities manifesting among young people. Through intelligence channels forces should identify local individuals who have previously been involved in protest activity to allow interventions. Ensure that OSINT is coninuously monitored to ensure that key issues reported by communities linked to the Olympics or cuurent local issues are noted and engagement is untaken. Any offences committed should be subject to thorough investigation. It is important that communities trust that police will seek to prosecute any person seen to break the law. This is particularly true of protests where a transparent and publicised post-event investigation will reassure communities as much as any pre-event messaging (although where an offence is particularly sensitive e.g. attack at a
mosque, police should use the advice of community leaders as to how much publicity should be undertaken). Successful prosecution and the use of preventative measures like ASBOs may also reduce further criminal activity. Consideration should be given to charging with aggravating factors where appropriate.
3 Create and manage a consistent communications strategy: A media strategy and key messages should be formulated and delivered jointly with partners and communities. Early engagement with local media is recommended. Consider the use of minority community media as well as local and national press. Key messages should also be delivered by local officers. Dissemination of RICU community media articles should be undertaken if written. Consideration should be given to using trusted community contacts to impart police messages for reassurance and to maintain the trust and confidence of communities. It is important to identify individuals who can act as credible communicators and influencers. When formulating key messages consult with force lay advisers, statutory partners and local communities, going beyond the usual contacts and engaging with youth and women in particular. Consideration should be taken to reassure communities who may be disproportionately impacted. Ensure strong lines of communication with Independent Advisory Groups, National Advisory Groups and community contacts so messages can be relayed quickly and efficiently e.g. in event of ‘flash’ protest. Local MPs and local government representatives should also be briefed. Key messages should include information on: what the police are dealing with; police powers and responsibilities under the Human Rights Act; information about the reporting, recording and investigation of hate crimes e.g. third party reporting. Establish clear media contact points at local and force level in order to impart police messages and refute any rumours. Ensure that OSINT is continuously monitored to ensure that key issues linked to the Olympics are noted.
4 National co-ordination of information and intelligence: Ensure strong liaison and communication channels between Force Olympic SPOCs and the OIC/OPC including NCTT. Ensure Force Tension Monitoring SPOCs and PREVENT staff are feeding into the Force Olympic SPOCs and helping to inform the OIC through standard Operation Element submissions. Neighbourhood Policing Teams and Prevent staff should be tasked via the National Intelligence Model process (e.g. TTCG meetings) to engage with and reassure communities and gather community intelligence. This intelligence should be used to identify and task further reassurance activity. Hold regular Force and Regional Olympic Intelligence meetings. Provide briefings to staff so that they are aware of the requirements pertaining to the submission of Olympics related information and intelligence. Communicate Olympics-related IRs within Forces via Tension Monitoring and Olympics SPOCs.
Provide NCTT with details of any incidents or tensions that become apparent within communities at a Force or National level that are exceptional to any existing tensions or any incident that can be directly attributed to the current events. Ensure that the time frames and process for Olympic reporting during the Olympic period have been organised allowing for daily reporting when the need arises.
CAVEAT & INFORMATION
This assessment will need to be revised in the light of any new information and is based on the experience and opinion of the authors not the bodies they represent.
APPENDIX 1 – SIGNIFICANT DATES DURING THE OLYMPICS PERIOD Sunday 29th July 2012 – Tisha B’Av (Jewish) A solemn day that commemorates a series of tragedies that have befallen the Jewish people over the years, many of which have coincidentally happened on this day. Friday 10th August 2012 – Janmashtami – Krishna Jayanti (Hindu) Marks the birth of Krishna. Tuesday 14th August 2012 – Lailat al Qadr (Muslim) The Night of Power, marks the night that the Qur’an was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad by Allah. Saturday 18th August 2012 – Jamshedi Noruz (Shenshai) (Zoroastrian) New Year’s Day in the Shenshai calendar. Sunday 19th August 2012 – Eid-ul-Fitr (Muslim) The end of Ramadan. (Ramadan starts on Friday 20th July 2012)
NATIONAL COMMUNITY IMPACT ASSESSMENT: LONDON 2012 OLYMPIC TORCH RELAY (UPDATE FEBRUARY 2012) PURPOSE Provide background information regarding the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay; Provide a revised overview of associated community tensions intelligence in relation to the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay; Provide a revised assessment of potential risks associated with the community tensions (both the likelihood of each risk occurring and the potential impact); Provide a revised menu of options/recommendations for mitigating potential risks. OVERVIEW OF THE 2012 OLYMPIC TORCH RELAY The London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay (OTR) will take place prior to the commencement of the London 2012 Olympic Games and will run from the 18/05/12 until 27/07/12. The Relay will last for 70 days with 8,000 people participating in carrying the Olympic Flame 300 metres each during the relay. A Torch Bearer nomination process has commenced across the UK giving members of the public an opportunity to participate. All Torch Bearers will undergo a selection process and at least 50% will be aged between 12 and 24. The London 2012 OTR has been planned so that 95% of the UK’s population will be within an hour’s travel of the Olympic Torch. Submissions were made to regional government and the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games (LOCOG) by Local Authorities regarding ideas for events to celebrate the Olympic Torch passing through their areas.
The OTR has three sponsors (Presenting Partners): Lloyds TSB, Samsung and Coca Cola. In addition, there are a further 6 supporting partners: Aggreko, BMW, BT, EDF, Holiday Inn and Visa. It is anticipated that there will be a great deal of public interest in the OTR and it is expected that celebrities will become involved in the series of OTR events along with the general public. The Olympic Torch will be protected by an MPS-led team who will travel with the Olympic Torch. It will be the responsibility of the local police services and Local Authorities to oversee policing and security measures pertaining to the OTR route, associated events, management of spectators and participants. Events are being planned across the country to celebrate and welcome the Olympic Torch. On the occasions where the Olympic Torch will spend an overnight stay, it is anticipated that planned events will be held on a larger scale. In addition to this Community Impact Assessment (CIA), an NCTT Intelligence Requirement and CIA have been produced and disseminated in relation to the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. OVERVIEW OF CURRENT AND POTENTIAL COMMUNITY TENSION INTELLIGENCE ASSOCIATED WITH THE LONDON 2012 OLYMPIC TORCH RELAY xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] Local Community Concerns The route of the OTR was recently announced and received much media attention, most notably in local media fora promoting the positive aspects of the OTR. Limited local community concerns have been reported to date pertaining to the London 2012 Olympic Games and more specifically, the London 2012 OTR. Again, reports are expected to increase once London 2012 Olympic Games time approaches. To date two main co-ordinated local community protest groups specifically targeting the London 2012 Olympic Games have emerged – ‘No to Greenwich Olympic Equestrian Events’ (NOGOE) and ‘Take Back Wanstead Flats’. Protest activity at Greenwich has included grafitti and demonstrations during Testing Events and a protest organised on the 21/11/11 at Wanstead Flats in opposition to the planned police muster point there and a protest outside of the High Court on the 05/12/11 where the appeal is likely to be lost. The Save Wanstead Flats group met on the 18/01/12 to discuss their future and are organising a community picnic on the 10/06/12 before the area is closed off and a further picnic at the end of the Games welcoming back full access to the area. Further local communtiy concerns include limitations to access of public spaces and disruption due to Olympic-related
improvements to infrastructure. Such local protest groups campaigning about the impact of the London 2012 Olympic Games may decide to direct their activity at the OTR; however, to date, the NCTT is not aware of any specific intellligence to indicate this. Negative London 2012 Olympic Games activity has remained near to Olympic venues, sponsor affiliated venues and specific rail stations linked to the Games. London 2012 Olympic Games venues and infrastructures have resulted in some opposition from local communities, such tensions could be an indication that local people are unclear of the long-term benefits that will be available to them as a result of the London 2012 Olympic Games. However, intelligence and information has been received that some communities are aware of the positive aspects and opportuntites that the London 2012 Olympic Games will provide. Limited anti-London 2012 Olympic Games community tensions have begun to be reported, examples include: graffiti discovered in Dorset and London, a local anti-London 2012 Olympic Games protest group has caused criminal damage and protest activity during Test Events at the equestrian events site in Greenwich Park and opposition amongst local community members has arisen in relation to the proposed MPS muster centre at Wanstead Flats. These tensions could possibly indicate a precursor to more direct action once the London 2012 OTR arrives in the area. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] Austerity Measures The impact of the Government’s austerity measures are beginning to be felt, particularly amongst public sector employees and service users and a national trade union led day of strike action took place on the 30/11/11. In November 2011 EDL members attempted to attack the North West Headquarters of Unite and online EDL messages stating they were ‘patrolling for the lefties’ have been reported. If the DL embarks upon countering left wing protest activity or demonstrations, there is the potential for disorder to result and for community tensions to increase. Some counties declined to submit ideas and nominations for the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay or enter their areas into regional government and LOCOG regarding London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay celebrations, on the grounds of cost implications surrounding the hosting of related activities. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] There has been an increase in protest activity recently in relation to the government’s austerity measures, and this could well continue during London 2012 Olympic Games time. Furthermore, historically British Jobs for British Workers directed activity specifically at the Olympic Park site and raised concerns about the number of British construction workers employed on the site in Stratford. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] The current economic climate internationally and the European austerity measures being implemented could mean there is a possibility of European protesters converging with British protesters. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] ‘Occupy’ protest camps have been set up in various towns and cities across the UK (most notably outside of St Pauls’ Cathedral), replicating the ‘Occupy Wallstreet’ Campaign activity in the US. It should be noted that no intelligence has been received to indicate convergence of European and / or US austerity measure protesters and none specifically in relation to the London 2012 Olympic Games. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] The media recently commented on the Home Secretary Teresa May suggesting that tents and similar items should be banned from the Games, in an effort to avoid camp activity at Olympic sites20. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31]
20 http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/2012/01/25/london-2012-100-arrests-olympics_n_1230285.html
London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay Sponsors As previously mentioned, the London 2012 OTR has three Presenting Partners (Sponsors) and six Supporting Partners (see section 2.2). Their associations to the event have been widely advertised and during the OTR itself, they will have an overt presence in the convoy. On 03/12/11 an anti ATOS protest group demonstrated at the Goal Ball Test event at the Olympic Park in Stratford. ATOS are a sponsor of the Games and have been subject to ongoing protests around austerity cuts and government decisions regarding benefit cuts. The Olympic Policing Co-ordination Team (OPCT) organised for an area outside the entrance to be utilised by the group. OPCT engaged with the group and received positive feedback regarding their experience on the day. However it should be noted that they advised of thier intention to protest in the future. Furthermore, the group criticised LOCOG for not allowing the protest to take place inside the Olympic Park. There is the risk that some London 2012 Olympic Games and London 2012 OTR sponsors will attract protest activity during Games time, due to their perceived connection to and/or their association with contentious issues. There has been much opposition to Dow Chemical21’s sponsorship relationship to the London 2012 Olympic Games, with commentary both in national and international media:
21 Indian athletes have requested the sponsorship deal be rescinded; the Chief minister of Madhya Pradesh (where Bhopal is located) asked India’s sports
minister to boycott the Games; Amnesty International have condemned the deal; the appropriateness of the sponsorship was questioned at a UK parliamentary
hearing; and Tessa Jowell, Shadow Minister for the Olympics, has written to the chair of the Commission for a Sustainable London 2012 requesting sight of information pertaining to the arrangement.
The OTR will pass through the following towns where Dow Chemical buildings are situated: Billingham Coventry Buxton Dewsbury Kings Lynn Lychfield Middlesbrough Redcar
Activist groups may chose to target the OTR when it passes through towns which accomodate Dow Chemical infratructures to highlight their concerns. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] Coca Cola has attracted negative attention with the international campaign ‘Killer Coke’ engaging in activities against the company. Previous negative campaign activity has taken place during OTRs. It should be noted thay Coca Cola have entered into a three year partnership with Streetgames, with a remit of improving sport related opportunities for young people. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] Samsung has received fairly limited protest and campaign activity, although previously the company has attracted negative activity in relation to environmental issues by Greenpeace. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] Lloyds TSB have experienced protest activity directed at its banking outlets by animal rights protesters, those against Lloyds TSB providing banking facilities for Qinetiq and recently protests attributed to anti austerity measure protesters. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31]
21 Approximately 15,000 people died in 1984 when gas leaked from the Union Carbide factory in Bhopal, India. Dow Chemical bought Union Carbide in 2001 but has not accepted responsibility for liabilities associated with the disaster. Dow Chemical is a sponsor of the London 2012 Olympic Games and will be providing a wrap around the Olympic Stadium and also possibly advertisements on taxis.
The following are two examples of negative activity directed toward an Olympic sponsor: BP is a major target for several environmental campaign groups and activists are aware of the company’s sponsorship of the London 2012 Olympic Games. In September 2010 the BT sponsored ‘British Olympic Ball’ at the Grosvenor House, London was targeted due to the company’s links to the telecommunications supplier providing services to Israeli checkpoints, military bases and settlements in the Palestinian territories. However, there were no clear anti-London 2012 Olympic Games protest agenda and is has not been identified whether the protest groups present were seeking to utilise the Olympic platform to raise awareness of this issue. Banks have experienced protest actvity pertaining to Government ‘bail outs’ and the publication of annual profits and payment of bonuses. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] NDEU are currently finalising details in relation to the deployments of Public Order Policing Section officers during this period. International Tensions and Conflicts With the diverse make up of towns and cities across the country, international tensions and conflicts could result in protest activity at the London 2012 OTR, and subsequently impact on community tensions. During the 2008 Beijing Games the conflict between Russia and Georgia emerged and impacted upon Games security. International issues that arise have the potential to cause large scale protests in the UK as well as increases in Hate Crime offences targeting particular communities. Various pro-Palestinian campaign groups have identified Israel’s participation in the London 2012 Olympic Games as a potential target for protest activity. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] Following on from this, Northamptonshire reported a threatening email was sent to the training venue of the Israeli swimming team. Furthermore, the London 2012 Olympic Games will see the 40th anniversary of the death of 11 Israeli athletes at the 1972 Munich Olympic Games. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] In addition, it should be noted that 2012 is the 30th anniversary of the Falklands War (02/04/82 – 14/06/82) will fall within the Olympics. A protest took place on the 21/01/12 outside of the British Embassy in Buenos Aires demanding Argentina break off diplomatic relations with the UK over the Falkland Islands. Hampshire constabulary advised that there will be significant public event activity in Portsmouth in 2012 in recognition of the anniversary. Although NCTT is not aware of any intelligence to indicate planned protest activity regarding this issue directed towards the OTR, protest groups may seek to highlight issues utilising the platform of the London 2012 Olympics Games. Other activity which may indicate raised community tension relating to the issue could include graffiti, negative media commentary and social media discussions. Reporting from police forces also suggest an increase in community tensions in this country, pertaining to the political unrest currently being experienced in the Middle East and North Africa. This has resulted in protest and demonstration activity across the country and outside embassies in London. It is possible that any participating countries associated with any controversial issues may become subject of protest activity which may target the London 2012 OTR. International conflicts and associated community tensions will continue to be monitored at a national level; with requests for information and intelligence from individual forces disseminated, when required. SPECIFIC RISKS xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] RECOMMENDATIONS FOR POLICING
The following recommendations are intended to equip local forces and the police service nationally to become aware of rising tension at the earliest moment xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31] Option 1 Understand and document communities and associated tensions prevalent within London 2012
Olympic Torch Relay route: Establish the make-up of communities and identify vulnerable locations, premises and businesses. Seek to identify those individuals and groups who may be drawn into protest or counter protest activity. Liaise with OIC and NCTT to obtain national products to assist. Ensure an understanding of existing issues and tensions. Hate crime levels should be closely monitored as indicators of community tensions and robustly investigated. Monitor websites, blogs and forums. Ensure an awareness of local events or critical incidents which may impact on a protest or trigger events or tensions. Develop a database of key contacts, key premises, businesses, vulnerable locations, relevant partner agencies. In light of the above picture, create specific OTR Community Impact Assessments at force and/or divisional level. Monitor international, national and local events for impact on tensions.
2 Undertake proactive community engagement to understand concerns and reassure communities: Seek broad ranging advice before engaging in operations which might affect communities. A reassurance strategy should be developed jointly with partners and communities. The Olympic Relations Team can be utilised as a UK resources to assist with community engagement pertaining to the London 2012 Olympic Games. Neighbourhood Policing Teams and PREVENT staff should be tasked via the National Intelligence Model process (e.g. TTCG meetings) to engage with and reassure communities and gather community intelligence, as deemed appropriate at a local level. This intelligence should be used to identify and task further reassurance activity. Monitor websites, blogs and forums. If appropriate, consider police and partner attendance at inter race, inter faith and inter community meetings/debates at senior to junior levels. Through intelligence channels forces should identify local individuals who have previously been involved in protest activity to allow interventions. Any offences committed should be subject to thorough investigation. It is important that communities trust that police will seek to prosecute any person seen to break the law. This is particularly true of protests where a transparent and publicised post-event investigation will reassure communities as much as any pre-event messaging (although where an offence is particularly sensitive e.g. attack at a mosque, police should use the advice of community leaders as to how much publicity should be undertaken). Successful prosecution and the use of preventative measures like ASBOs may also reduce further criminal activity. Consideration should be given to charging with aggravating factors where appropriate.
Where religiously or racially aggravated offences hav occurred, ensure these are recorded accurately and appropriately, in compliance with Hate Crime policy.
3 Create and manage a consistent communications strategy: A media strategy and key messages should be formulated and delivered jointly with partners and communities. Early engagement with local media is recommended. Consider the use of minority community media as well as local and national press. Key messages should also be delivered by local officers. Dissemination of RICU community media articles should be undertaken if written. In addition, advice can be sought from the Olympic Community Communications Manager. Consideration should be given to using trusted community contacts to impart police messages for reassurance and to maintain the trust and confidence of communities. It is important to identify individuals who can act as credible communicators and influencers. When formulating key messages consult with force lay advisers, statutory partners and local communities, going beyond the usual contacts and engaging with youth and women in particular. Consideration should be taken to reassure communities who may be disproportionately impacted. Consider engaging with specialist media, to ensure communities are informed of developments. Ensure strong lines of communication with Independent Advisory Groups (IAGs), Neighbourhood Action Group (NAGs) and community contacts so messages can be relayed quickly and efficiently e.g. in event of ‘flash’ protest. Local MPs and local government representatives should also be briefed. Key messages should include information on: what the police are dealing with; police powers and responsibilities under the Human Rights Act; information about the reporting, recording and investigation of hate crimes e.g. third party reporting. Establish clear media contact points at local and force level in order to impart police messages and refute any rumours Monitor online media and communications so that feelings and tensions can be monitored and responded to appropriately and timely.
4 National co-ordination of information and intelligence: Ensure strong liaison and communication channels between Force Olympic SPOCs and the OIC. Ensure local Tension Monitoring SPOC and Prevent SPOCs are feeding into the Force Olympic SPOCs and helping to inform any Olympic related assessments that are made at a local level. Hold regular Force Olympic Intelligence meetings, with relevant stakeholders (including local Tension Monitoring SPOC). Provide briefings to staff so that they are aware of the requirements pertaining to the submission of Olympics related information and intelligence. Ensure Olympic related Intelligence Requirements are communicated widely (as appropriate) within Forces. Ensure Force Olympic SPOCs are sharing information with local Tension Monitoring SPOC. Monitor online sites, blogs and forums to monitor: Community feeling Protesters’ subscriptions and comments Effectively address offending online material (guidance can be sought from the CTIRU)
Provide NCTT with details of any incidents or tensions that become apparent within communities at a Force or National level that are exceptional to any existing tensions or any incident that can be directly attributed to the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay.
CAVEAT This assessment will need to be revised in the light of any new information and is based on the experience and opinion of the authors not the bodies they represent. National Community Tension Team ACPO [email protected] xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [Exempt information – s.31]
Related Documents
