Man Arrested After Racist Stabbing in Surrey Declared Terror Incident
Counter Terrorism Policing South East has launched a probe after a stabbing and racial attack in Stanwell, Surrey, last night. The shocking incident has now been officially declared a terrorist event.
Violent Attack on Stanwell Street
On the evening of March 16, Surrey Police arrested a 50-year-old man following reports of aggressive behaviour. Just before 10.30pm, officers were called to Viola Avenue where a man was seen shouting racist abuse while armed with a baseball bat and a knife.
Nearby vehicles were damaged during the chaos. Moments later, police received a report that a man had been stabbed in the area.
Suspect Caught and Victim Hospitalised
Armed officers quickly found the suspect, who is from Stanwell, and arrested him on suspicion of attempted murder and racially aggravated public order offences. He remains in police custody. Authorities confirmed no one else is being sought in connection with the attack.
The victim, aged 19, suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to hospital where he currently remains under care.
Terror Links and Police Response
Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu, Head of Counter Terrorism Policing, said:“Whilst this investigation is still in its infancy, it has hallmarks of a terror event, inspired by the far right, and therefore it has been declared a terrorism incident.
“This designation lets us deploy specialist resources to uncover the attack’s full circumstances. Our South East Counter Terrorism team is leading the investigation alongside Surrey Police to get a clear picture of what happened.”
Police are intensifying efforts to combat extremist ideologies that threaten public safety. Officers will increase patrols, offering reassurance and security advice in communities, places of worship, and businesses.
Stay Alert, Stay Safe
The public is urged to remain vigilant and report anything suspicious. Assistant Commissioner Basu added:
“Our top priority is the safety of the public. We work daily to prevent and disrupt violent extremism in the UK. Everyone has a role to play in keeping our communities safe.”
