Overview
- Officers arrested the unnamed 14-year-old at a south London address on Thursday, July 9 after an earlier inquiry into criminal damage to a vehicle in the Sutton area.
- A search of the home uncovered what police called “a number of documents of concern,” which led investigators to arrest the boy on suspicion of preparation of terrorist acts.
- On Wednesday, July 15 Counter Terrorism Policing London charged him with preparation of terrorist acts under section 5 of the Terrorism Act 2006 and with racially aggravated criminal damage.
- Police say the terrorism charge relates to an alleged plan to target two mosques in Sutton, they have contacted the venues and the vehicle victim, and specialist officers are providing ongoing support.
- Authorities report they are not seeking other suspects and do not believe there is a wider enduring threat, and they have increased local patrols while working with safeguarding partners including ACT Early.