Merseyside officers have been praised by Chief Constable Bernard Hogan-Howe for their swift action following the anti-terror security blunder.
Police have arrested five suspects in Liverpool and eight others from Manchester and Clitheroe are also being held under the Terrorism Act.
Named as 'Operation Pathway' armed officers arrested one man at the Liverpool JMU Aldham Robarts Library, and three at addresses in Cedar Grove, Toxteth and one at flat in Earle Road, Wavertree.
The Liverpool raids had been set for today, but after photographers outside Downing Street were allowed to snap top secret files the plans were brought forward.
Carrying the papers was, Assistant Met Commissioner Bob Quick, who has sinced resigned and apologised for putting the months of intelligence work at risk.
Thanking all involed in the arrests, Hogan-Howe praised his officers for 'going above and beyond the call of duty' to keep Liverpool safe.
The Chief Constable said: "I would like to personally thank all the police officers and staff in Merseyside for their amazing responsiveness to yesterday’s operation.
"Many officers went above and beyond their duties to make sure our city remains a safe place to live.
"In light of the decision to bring the operation forward, the flexibility and commitment shown by those involved is also to be commended. I am very proud of what they achieved.
"All those involved did an excellent job and I am confident that this level of professionalism and commitment will continue as we support the North West Counter Terrorism Unit in their investigation.
"I understand this kind of police activity can cause concern to people living or working in the areas affected. The extra patrols, cordons and measures we have in place have been implemented to make sure we are doing everything we can to reassure the public and maintain public safety.
"We will continue to do everything we can to keep people on Merseyside safe and would like to thank the public of Merseyside for their co-operation, continued support and patience."
Merseyside police are asking for the public’s help to defeat terrorism, by being extra
vigilant and letting them know of any suspicious activity or behaviour.
If you have any information we urge you to phone the anti-terrorist hotline on
0800 789321.
If you want to discuss any concerns or have any information please contact
the Diversity Team on 0151 777 1680 or South Liverpool Neighbourhood Team
on 0151 777 5353.
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