Statements on the Salisbury and Amesbury Incidents from PCC Angus Macpherson and CC Kier Pritchard

Public statement from Police and Crime Commissioner Angus Macpherson

"I am very pleased today to hear the significant development announced by the Counter Terrorism Policing investigation team relating to the ongoing incidents in Salisbury and Amesbury. This is very welcome news.

"Local communities in Salisbury and Amesbury have been under the spotlight since this terrible event began to unfold on Sunday 4 March. Our emergency services have also been under intense scrutiny as the events and impact of this heinous crime have become clearer.  

"My thoughts remain very firmly with all those who have been affected by this incident.

"I would like to pay tribute to the public, who are unwavering in their support for the ongoing policing and partnership operation during what clearly are challenging and difficult times.

"Equally, I would like to praise the work of Wiltshire Police, other forces who have offered their support through mutual aid and the agencies with whom the police operate in partnership, as they work diligently and professionally to ensure that the impact upon the wider community is being managed during what are extraordinary circumstances.

"Finally, I would like to commend the Counter Terrorism Policing investigation team who have worked tirelessly to gather the evidence which has resulted in charges being bought about today against the two individuals believed to be responsible for this truly horrific crime."

Statement from Chief Constable Kier Pritchard

"I welcome the significant news today from the Counter Terrorism Policing Network regarding the identification of two suspects who are believed to be responsible for the attempted murders of Sergei and Yulia Skripal. Furthermore, I also welcome the news from the CPS that sufficient evidence has been secured to bring significant charges against these two individuals.

"I would like to praise the investigation team for their diligence, dedication and professionalism to date in what are truly extraordinary circumstances. They, supported by Wiltshire Police, have worked tirelessly since 3 March, and continue to do so, gathering and assessing numerous pieces of evidence and exhibits to try and solve this extremely serious crime.

"My thoughts, and those of Wiltshire Police, remain with Sergei and Yulia Skripal, Charlie Rowley, the family of Dawn Sturgess, who tragically died, and of course Detective Sergeant Nick Bailey, one of our own officers, who thankfully continues to make a recovery.

"I wish to reassure the public of Salisbury and Amesbury that we, alongside our partners, will continue to work together closely to manage the impact of this incident on our communities and to help Salisbury and Amesbury return back to normal. We remain very grateful for the support of the public throughout what has been the most challenging of times.

"We will continue to offer our colleagues in the Counter Terrorism Policing Network our full and ongoing support in this investigation.

"I would urge anyone with any information following the appeal made today, to contact the Counter Terrorism hotline on 0800 789 321 or email the investigation team at [email protected]."