Islam convert arrested after two grenades seized in raid

A MUSLIM convert was arrested on suspicion of terrorism after two military grenades, a firearm and chemicals were seized at his flat.

Sixty homes were evacuated and a 300ft-wide area cordoned off after officers raided the property. A bomb disposal team was also called to the scene.

A man, named locally as unemployed Clinton Hicks, 59, was arrested under the Terrorism Act in Lowestoft, Suffolk.

The Metropolitan Police’s Counter Terrorism Command has now taken over the investigation. It said the grenades had been found to be ‘inert’ – or not live. The firearm is believed to be an imitation weapon.

Attempts were being made to identify the chemicals.

William Coleman, 91, who lives above Hicks’ flat, said his neighbour grew a beard and took a Muslim name ‘about six or eight months ago’. Mr Coleman’s daughter Bridget Porter said Hicks, a former council parks and gardens worker, lived with 16 cats.

Neighbour Marion Rabbatts, 70, said it was ‘scary’ that grenades had been found.

Hicks remained in custody last night. Detective Chief Superintendent Alexis Boon said: ‘After a pre-planned operation by Suffolk Constabulary, Counter Terrorism Command is now leading this investigation.’