The Met says public safety remains a “top priority” as a live investigation gets underway into the planned knife and van terror plot to injure LGBT parade goers.

A Luton-based Pride attack plotters, a 28-year-old man and a 25-year-old woman, were busted on Wednesday following a joint investigation by the Met’s SO15 anti-terror branch and MI5.

A source told the Sun, yesterday: “They were taken out at an early stage of suspected plans to hit the Pride march

It comes as a record attendance of 30,000 is expected at the annual march through central London to celebrate sexual diversity, culminating with a free series of events in Trafalgar Square. 

“We would ask the public to remain alert”

Met Police

The celebrations will continue over the entire weekend, into Sunday too, with hundreds of live performances planned.

Ahead of the parade, a Met Police spokesman said a “comprehensive plan is in place for the Pride festival” but festival-goers should remain “alert” to danger.

He said: “The message to the public is to continue with your plans as normal. 

“The safety and security of the public remains a top priority and nationally.

“As with any major public event, we would ask the public to remain alert, but not alarmed, and if they see anything suspicious to ACT and report it to police or stewards at the event.”

He added since March 2017 UK police and intelligence services have halted 19 attacks in their tracks. 

Counter-terrorism officers are also are currently working on a record number of just under 800 investigations.

“Counter-Terrorism Policing officers are currently working on a record number of just under 800 investigations – the majority of which are in partnership with MI5 focusing on a range of terrorist-related activity including fundraising, radicalising and preparing acts of terrorism.”

Alternatively, you can call the Anti-Terrorist Hotline in confidence on 0800 789 321. In an emergency, always dial 999.

Scotland Yard previously advised people to stay vigilant while enjoying the day.

Thousands are expected to join the parade from Portland Place, before the planned route winds down Oxford Street toward Trafalgar Square.

Commander Helen Millichap said: “We want Pride to be a friendly and safe event for everyone to enjoy.

“We need the public to help us by taking the usual precautions by remaining vigilant and reporting anything of concern to police officers or stewards at the event.”

The investigation into the Pride terror plot remains ongoing.

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