A 17-year-old has been arrested by officers from the Metropolitan Police’s Counter Terrorism Command on suspicion of a terrorism offence. The teenager was initially stopped by police at London Gatwick Airport using ‘schedule 7’ counter-terrorism powers upon his return to the UK on Sunday, June 2.
Under the Terrorism Act (TACT), 2000, the individual was stopped and subsequently had his mobile phone examined. Following the examination, he was arrested on suspicion of dissemination of terrorist material, which is contrary to section 2 of TACT, 2006.
Commander Dominic Murphy, the head of the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command, emphasised the importance of working closely with partner agencies to monitor ports and borders. He highlighted that the powers available under Schedule 7 play a crucial role in safeguarding the UK from potential terrorist threats.
This arrest also highlights a concerning trend of teenagers being apprehended for terrorism offences. Commander Murphy urged parents, carers, friends, and family to remain vigilant and report any concerns or worries about their loved ones potentially being radicalised or drawn into extremism or terrorism. He emphasised the significance of acting early and getting in touch with authorities so that necessary intervention can take place before it is too late.
