Police arrest five men around the country over Islamist terror plot
‘Security is our top priority and officers have been planning for New Year’s Eve for several months’
FIVE men arrested on suspicion of terrorism offences yesterday are thought to be linked to Islamist extremism.
Scotland Yard said a 21-year-old was arrested in Manchester on suspicion of the commission, preparation or instigation of an act of terrorism.
A 19-year-old was arrested in Peterborough, and two men aged 22 and 23 were arrested in north London on suspicion of the same offence.
Another teenager, also 19, was arrested in Peterborough on suspicion of encouraging terrorism.
Searches were conducted at addresses in Manchester, Peterborough and north London, and all five men remain in police custody.
A Metropolitan Police spokesman said the arrests, which The Daily Telegraph understands to be in relation to Islamist extremism, were pre-planned and stressed “there is not believed to be any imminent threat to the public”.
The arrests are not linked to the London Bridge attack in November or to New Year’s Eve celebrations, the force said.
A police spokesman said further information would be made available through the Metropolitan Police website as no press conference is currently planned. The spokesman also said that under powers granted by the Terrorism Act 2000, police could hold the men for up to seven days.
The arrests were made by officers from the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command along with colleagues from the Counter Terrorism Policing North West unit and the Eastern Region Special Operations Unit.
Events around the country to mark the new year are always feared to be targets for terrorists. Thousands of new year celebrations will be held in restaurants, bars, pubs and clubs across London, with most being ticket only. In a statement, the Met Police said it had been working closely with the Mayor’s office, British Transport Police (BTP), City of London Police, Westminster city council and other emergency services, to ensure New Year’s Eve events run safely.
Paul Brogden, the Met Police Commander in charge of ensuring New Year’s Eve passes off safely in the capital, said: “We want everyone who comes to London for New Year’s Eve to have a good time. Their safety and security is our top priority and officers have been planning for the event for several months. Officers will be out and about to deter criminals and keep crowds safe but we need you to look after yourself and those around you as well.
“If you see anything suspicious or that causes you concern, please tell a steward or police officer. Keep an eye on your belongings and only bring what you need.” Police warn that as well as the ongoing threat from terrorism, criminals are also likely to use the cover of crowds.