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Threats of ‘serious violence’ at Norfolk schools are believed to be a hoax




Threats of “serious violence” directed at a number of schools are believed to be part of a hoax.

Numerous schools in Norfolk have received the threats, as well as others across the country.

Reports suggest that emails sent to schools have warned of “heinous attacks” - but the police have moved to reassure parents that there does not appear to be anything to worry about.

Threats of ‘serious violence’ at schools in our area are believed to be part of a hoax. Picture: iStock
Threats of ‘serious violence’ at schools in our area are believed to be part of a hoax. Picture: iStock

A Norfolk Police spokesperson told the Lynn News: “We are aware of some concerns raised by a post circulating online in Cambridgeshire.

“There is nothing to suggest that there has been a credible threat to schools here.

“If there is ever anything to suggest this, it would always be communicated to parents from official sources such as the police or schools.”

West Norfolk Police has shared a statement from Fenland Police on the matter, which says the force “believes the email to be a hoax”.

It adds: “We have been notified of an email which is being circulated to several schools, some of which are in Cambridgeshire.

“Cambridgeshire is not the only county to receive the message, and similar emails have been reported nationally over the past week.

“At this time there is no specific identified threat to schools within our county however local schools have been advised to review their protocols and be vigilant.”

However, a number of parents remain concerned and have voiced their concerns on social media - with some calling for the matter to be taken seriously.

A letter sent to parents from Lucy Scott, CEO of the Eastern Learning Alliance - which runs Downham Academy - says the emails sent out contain “a generic threat of serious violence at unspecified school sites”.

Her letter added: “The police are fully aware of this and are treating it with the seriousness it deserves. However, at this time, they believe it to be a hoax.

“As a group of schools, we are taking a vigilant approach out of an abundance of caution.

“Please be reassured that we have robust lockdown procedures in place across all our schools, and this morning, we have worked closely with our heads of school to ensure that all necessary precautions are in place should they be required.

“While there is no immediate cause for concern, we ask for your support in remaining alert.”



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