UK: Scotland Yard says tanks could return at any time
Troops sent to Heathrow airport as part of the so-called “war on terror” have been withdrawn, according to Scotland Yard.
As reported by News From Abroad, some 450 troops were stationed at the airport for most of last week amid rumours and / or intelligence reports that terrorists were trying to blow an aircraft out of the sky as it approached or took off from Heathrow. Several people were arrested on terror charges in the area around the airport.
But while travellers and airport authorities welcomed the troops’ departure from Heathrow, police refused to rule out their return in the coming days and weeks. A spokesman told The Independent: “The arrangements remain under review and we will continue to take whatever action is necessary to protect the public.”
Meanwhile, the 37-year-old Venezuelan man arrested at Gatwick after being caught with a live hand grenade has been remanded in custody by London’s Bow Street Magistrates’ Court. Hasil Mohammed Rahaham-Alan was charged with carrying a dangerous item on a flight, possessing an explosive and possessing an article for terrorist purposes.
