MEMBERS of Worcester’s Muslim community spent a day in the shoes of local police officers as part of a project tackling terrorism.

Officers from West Mercia Police, Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service and West Mercia Probation Trust were joined by youth workers, businessmen and women and students at the Guildhall where they attempted to swap roles in a fictitious investigation.

The aim of Operation Nicole was to show people the complexities faced by police in making counter-terrorism decisions, while also helping officers understand the impact their operations have on communities.

Among the scenarios they covered included a young man spotted buying chemicals and fertiliser and participants were asked whether or not they would arrest him.

They were then asked if they would arrest all of his family members, including elderly parents, when officers later find bomb-making equipment openly on display in the kitchen of his family home.

Student Shabaz Ali, who studies at Worcester College of Technology, said the day was very useful. “I was a lot younger than many of those who took part and it was interesting to hear everyone else’s views and opinions,” said the 17-year-old.

“It was a good way of meeting people and getting a better understanding of how the police work. It’s changed my views about how they try to deal with the people and communities.”

Businessman Mohammed Manir said that focus needed to be made on improving communication between the police and Muslim communities, ensuring individuals do what they can to stop terrorism if they see or hear something in their community, and looking at how British foreign affairs have an impact on the situation.

Superintendent Steve Cullen, policing commander for south Worcestershire, also took part in the exercise.

He said: “While terrorism threats come from many sections of British society, this exercise is designed for participants from Muslim communities because the main threat comes from people acting in the name of Islam.

“Muslim communities are also disproportionately affected by counter-terrorist operations.

“Operation Nicole generates intensive dialogue in a safe environment for those communities to discuss their concerns and differences with the police and other local services.”

Inspector Janet Heritage, who leads local policing in Worcester and who organised the event, said she believed the event took forward the police’s relationship with the local Muslim community and thanked all those who took part.