Britain has raised its official threat level for terror attacks from Northern Ireland republican dissidents, Home Secretary Theresa May says, amid reports that rebel groups have obtained explosives.
May confirmed the situation in a written statement to Parliament on Wednesday, adding that the MI5 security service’s decision to bump the threat level from moderate to substantial meant that “a terrorist attack is a strong possibility.”
As a result of the change, British police and other relevant authorities have stepped up measures to make sure overall security is not affected, May added.
May also advised people in England, Scotland, and Wales to remain vigilant and inform authorities of suspicious activities.
The home secretary stopped short of providing further details of any intelligence had led to the decision.
“The main focus of violent dissident republican activity continues to be in Northern Ireland, where they have targeted the brave police…