Soldiers on alert over ‘Lee Rigby-style' threat to behead paratrooper
Security has been tightened at the Colchester garrison, where Parachute Regiment battalions are located, after online threats were intercepted by Nottinghamshire police.
All military staff at the base have been warned not to wear any uniforms or clothing outside the camp which would identify them as military personnel. The families of service members have also been sent warnings.
Police are investigating the online threats, which come 12 years after the beheading of Fusilier Lee Rigby stunned Britain.
Fusilier Rigby was murdered by Michael Adebolajo and Michael Adebowale on May 22 2013, outside the Royal Artillery barracks in Woolwich, south London, after he was seen wearing a Help for Heroes hoodie, which was popular with troops.
The alert sent to families and service personnel at Colchester Garrison, where 3,500 troops and 750 civilian workers are based, says: 'Urgent. All, please disseminate to all your people in camp.
'We have received a warning that a man has made threats against members of the Para Regt and wants to carry out a 'Lee Rigby' style attack.
'The SCC [Security Control Centre] and main gate have been informed but ensure no Para Regt/military clothing is worn outside camp and remain vigilant.'
The messages specifically named the suspect and stated other identifying details. It is not known whether he has yet been apprehended.
The Ministry of Defence said: 'The safety and wellbeing of our personnel is our top priority. We are aware of an online threat, which is being investigated by the civilian police.
'Personnel are always advised to remain vigilant and report anything suspicious to the Royal Military Police.'
Colchester's military history dates back to the late 18th century when the first barracks were built in the city.
The garrison is the home of 16 Air Assault Brigade and troops from the Parachute Regiment's second and third battalions, alongside other infantry and aviation units and supporting detachments such as logistics and medical personnel.
Airborne forces are notorious for wearing regimental clothing outside working hours, particularly distinctive maroon-coloured T-shirts and fleeces, most often worn with tight jeans and desert boots, a tradition that goes back many decades.
Fusilier Rigby was a father of one from Middleton, Greater Manchester, and had served in Afghanistan. At the time of his death, he was working in army recruitment.
He was a trained machine-gunner and a regimental drummer. He was given a military funeral at Bury parish church on July 12 2013.
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