Twelve individuals have been apprehended in connection with a potential right-wing extremist threat aimed at an Islamic gathering held at a rural estate in Suffolk, according to law enforcement authorities.
Counter Terrorism Police London disclosed that the UK Ijtima event at Shrubland Hall was terminated prematurely on Sunday as a precautionary measure following the perceived threat.
Commander Helen Flanagan, the Head of Counter Terrorism Policing London, stated that swift arrests were made across various locations nationwide upon the discovery of a credible threat towards the Islamic event in Suffolk. She expressed gratitude to Suffolk Police for their assistance in responding to the situation, which prompted the declaration of a major incident on Sunday. Flanagan also acknowledged the cooperation of event organizers and the affected public.
The Commander acknowledged the potential concern among the public, particularly the Muslim community, regarding the targeted nature of the threat. However, she emphasized the proactive stance taken by law enforcement to address any potential threat, irrespective of the target.
Although the event concluded earlier than scheduled, it concluded without incident. The incident served as a reminder of the heightened threat level in the UK, prompting a call for continued vigilance from the public.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood praised the police response in neutralizing the threat to the UK Ijtima festival, highlighting the lifesaving impact of their actions. She urged unity against hatred and emphasized the importance of fostering an inclusive and tolerant society.
The event, attended by 15,000 individuals, faced a challenging and rapidly evolving situation. Suffolk Constabulary’s Assistant Chief Constable Alice Scott confirmed the activation of a major incident response to ensure the safe departure of all attendees. The incident status was later rescinded following a successful coordinated effort by multiple agencies.
Eight of the arrested individuals have been detained under the Terrorism Act 2000 as part of the ongoing investigation. Among them are three men aged 55, 60, and 82 apprehended in Surrey for alleged conspiracy to commit murder, and a 48-year-old woman arrested in east London on suspicion of assisting an offender.
