A seventh individual has been detained as part of an ongoing investigation by the Metropolitan Police’s Counter Terrorism Command into activities allegedly linked to the proscribed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK).
The 31-year-old man, referred to as [G], was arrested on the afternoon of Wednesday, November 27, in west London. He is being held under section 41(1) of the Terrorism Act 2000 and remains in custody at a London police station.
https:///youtu.be/Pybtrdc3j-I
Earlier Arrests
This development follows the arrest of six other individuals earlier in the day:
- [A] a 59-year-old woman
- [B] a 27-year-old man
- [C] a 31-year-old woman
- [D] a 62-year-old man
- [E] a 56-year-old man
- [F] a 23-year-old man
They were all detained under the same legislation and are also in custody as the investigation progresses.
Community Concerns Addressed
Acting Commander Helen Flanagan of the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command addressed the arrests, stating:
“I want to stress that today’s arrests are targeted specifically at those we believe may be involved in suspected terrorist activity.
We understand these arrests have caused some concern amongst certain local communities – particularly those in the Kurdish community. I want to reassure the community that our activity is being carried out to keep everyone safe from potential harm, including those within the Kurdish community itself.”
Search and Protest Activity
Search operations are continuing at the Kurdish Community Centre in Haringey, north London, which remains closed to the public. Following the arrests, a group of protestors gathered near the centre. Four individuals from the protest group were arrested, though these arrests are unrelated to the Counter Terrorism Command’s investigation.
Additional officers have been deployed to the area to manage the protests and engage with the local community.
Community Reassurance
Local officers will maintain a presence in the area, offering reassurance and updates to residents and community leaders. Commander Flanagan urged the public to avoid speculation or the spread of unverified information online regarding the investigation.
Appeal for Information
Police are encouraging anyone with concerns or information about the investigation or the activities of the PKK to come forward. Reports can be made in confidence by calling 0800 789 321 or via www.gov.uk/ACT.
Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or visiting www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
This operation highlights the continued efforts to address potential terrorist activity and maintain public safety across the UK.
