UK police release alleged Al-Qaeda video

London: Police in London have released footage filmed by what they say is a suspected al-Qaeda-linked gang scoping out the city's underground train network and other landmarks.

It comes after the police were criticised for stopping people in the British capital taking photographs of iconic buildings and places. Officers have the power to stop and search the public under section 44 of the UK Terrorism Act 2000.

In an interview with a British news channel, Detective Superintendent Chris Greany from the City of London Police said the footage found was suspicious and showed "ongoing terrorist methodology" in action. "I think hopefully we disrupted something, which could have been much worse," he said, referring to what police believe was a plan for a possible attack on London.

But Grant Smith, a professional photographer in the city, said that sometimes the police were getting it wrong. "Just because someone is taking a photograph does not automatically make them suspicious," Smith said.

The footage led to the conviction of two Algerian men, although they were charged with fraud and not with any terrorism offences. The pair served jail sentences before being deported.

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The City of London Police are keen to reassure tourists and Londoners that taking pictures around the city is perfectly acceptable as long as they are open about what they are doing.

"If you just let us know what you're doing, put some balance on this. Police officers speak to the public all the day, all day. Let us know what you're doing and you'll be on your way," said Greany.

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