Security Personnel at one of London’s main universities, acknowledge there’s a five minute window before they can act on an attack mounted by terrorists.
Security Personnel at the University of Westminster are trained to dial one of the three emergency numbers, incase, they sense they need to stop someone and question.
However, in the aftermath of terrorist attacks on soft targets in Mumbai, it raises questions on if radios carried by security personnel in campus is enough to protect students at the face of unforseen danger.
Newman, the Security Personnel at the University of Westminster, Harrow campus commented, “ We carry normal radio and if someone looks suspicious we message the other security guys around the campus. We don’t carry rifles or any weapon whatsoever.”
When asked if it’s fair on little-equipped policeman to deal with sophisticated weapons like AK-47s and yet be expected to protect, Newman said, “ I don’t decide what to carry with me on duty. It depends on the situation one is in.”
Lapses in Security
Miscommunication or delay in commuting with the local police station can easily wreak havoc, as the Mumbai attacks were a testimony.
Mrs. M. Shah, a newsagent at the Northwick Park Tube Station, around the University of Westminster campus, complained, “I feel vulnerable all the time after the attacks. The alleyway down the road just seems too narrow if there’s an attack and if people need to run out fast.”
Security around Campus
Students around the university are divided about the issue of security in the campus; some believe that carrying a heavy gun can be very intimidating.
Wong Lee, a student at the same university opines, “ It can be very scary to see heavily armed men in your university campus. It feels like something is going to go wrong.”
Met Office opines
Met Police Officer Jayme Johnson feels that arming civilians would be a long stride in an effort to combat terrorism. He suggests safe neighbourhood teams to come into universities to give people a better idea of self defense.
As the Met Police officer suggests, “It is popular belief that when you arm yourself people are more prone to raising arms against you.”
