The following information was released by the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (Metro):

The Metro Transit Police Department (MTPD) launched Blue TIDE, a new initiative Tuesday aimed at deterring terrorist activity in the Metro system. Blue TIDETerrorism Identification and Deterrence Effortincluded about 50 MTPD officers conducting a major, high-visibility, anti-terrorism show of force at Union Station during the morning rush hour.

While there is no current threat to the transit agency or elevated threat level, the presence of 50 uniformed officers at Metros busiest rail station served as a visible reminder to riders and the public that Metro remains vigilant against terrorist activity.

Blue TIDE included a number of security sweeps and patrols at the Union Station Metrorail station and Metrobus boarding area outside of Union Station. It also served to remind the public to remain observant while riding Metro and report any suspicious behavior.

Officers from a number of MTPD units participated in the effort, including the anti-terrorism, special response and K-9 explosives detection teams, Metrobus enforcement and criminal investigations divisions, bomb technicians, emergency management, mobile and foot patrols, auto theft unit, bicycle squad, crime prevention and police communications.

The entire Metro Transit Police Department remains vigilant against terrorist activity, and todays show of force is just one method we use to deter terrorism, said Metro Transit Police Deputy Chief Dave Webb. We use tactics such as increased surveillance and random, unpredictable patrols of Metrobuses, trains, stations and facilities to keep the Metro system and its riders as secure as possible.