There was a large police presence at Manchester Victoria Station last night as part of a pre-planned operation to provide 'reassurance'.
A number of travellers took to social media to report seeing around 100 officers and knife arches being used at the transport hub.
The Manchester Evening News understands there is no ongoing incident and the presence is part of Project Servator, an ongoing operation aimed at discouraging and disrupting criminality.
Both British Transport Police and Greater Manchester Police are involved in the tactic which has also seen firearms officers, search dogs and plain-clothed officers patrolling city centre locations in recent weeks.
The new tactic sees highly visible patrols and turning up anywhere and at any time across the city centre to target offenders of all levels - ranging from petty criminals to terrorists.
It follows a successful 12-month pilot at Manchester Airport and is now being adopted in the city centre.
Chief Inspector David Rams, from British Transport Police, tweeted: "Really pleased that British Transport Police Greater Manchester are carrying out enhanced patrols at Manchester Victoria tonight with Greater Manchester Police City Centre.
"Knife arch, passenger reassurance and a drive to reduce violent crime. Nothing to worry about but please do speak to the officers."
Earlier, Manchester Walks tweeted the M.E.N to ask: "Massive police presence at Victoria Station. What's happening?"
Another Twitter user added: "Mandatory metal detectors/body scanners in use and about 100 police officers at Manchester Victoria station. All very hostile. Stay safe friends."
Outlining Project Servator last month, Deputy of Greater Manchester Bev Hughes said: "This is a positive police operation that has proved successful in other areas, so I’m pleased to see it launched in Manchester city centre.
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"The public have been telling us that they want to see more visible policing and this operation will help to reassure them that the police are committed to keeping us safe, whilst sending a strong message to criminals that they are not welcome here.
“I also encourage the public to work with the police and report anything suspicious. By working together we can make our streets and communities safer and more secure.”
GMP is encouraging everyone to follow national ACT (Action Counters Terrorism) guidance. More information on what to look out for and how to contact police can be found at www.gov.uk/ACT .
