Police have taken swift action by making an arrest in connection with a series of concerning emails that threatened violence to children and staff at several schools in Leeds. West Yorkshire Police initiated an investigation into these unsettling communications and have been actively providing reassurance and safety advice to the affected schools.
The police force, in an official statement, confirmed that an investigation had been launched into a potential malicious communications offence and announced that an arrest had been made regarding this matter. It was crucial to clarify that, contrary to some reports, the police had not issued guidance to schools to initiate a “lockdown” and had not declared the threats to be credible.
Among the schools known to be affected are Richmond Hill Academy, Ruth Gorse Academy, Sharp Lane Primary School, Windmill Primary School, Beeston Primary School, and Clapgate Primary School, according to reports by Leeds Live. In response to the situation, several schools in Leeds have implemented heightened security measures to provide reassurance to parents and caregivers.
Schools that have chosen to initiate a soft lockdown have informed parents and guardians that students will remain indoors throughout the day, with the possibility of some students being sent home early.
Despite the unsettling emails, schools are expected to resume normal operations the following day. Both Leeds City Council and Bradford Council have been actively monitoring the situation, working closely with West Yorkshire Police to ensure the safety and support of schools affected by this incident.
As authorities continue to investigate the matter and provide guidance to the affected schools, the community remains vigilant, prioritising the safety and well-being of students and staff.
Earlier this week, a police inquiry was initiated following the transmission of malevolent emails to multiple educational institutions in the North West region.
In response to the emails, a school in Chester adopted a lockdown procedure, temporarily prohibiting parents from collecting their children. However, subsequent investigation revealed that the received email was deemed an “unpleasant” and likely a malicious hoax.
Similarly, Blacon High School in Chester also took precautionary steps in response to the email but stressed that it was not presently under lockdown, aiming to provide reassurance to its community.
Cheshire Police issued a statement acknowledging their awareness of the email that had been circulated to several schools in Chester and Ellesmere Port, containing threats directed at students and staff.
