Teen Terror Leader Nabbed Over Bomb-Making Plots
A 16-year-old boy, whose name is protected by law, was sentenced after pleading guilty to terror offences linked to online extremism. The youngster appeared via video link before Mr Justice Dennis and was handed a tough 24-month youth rehabilitation order.
Police Crack Down on Teenage FKD Extremist
Back in July 2019, Devon and Cornwall Police, alongside Counter Terrorism Policing South West, arrested the boy after he posted worrying comments about making firearms online. Police seized several digital devices, uncovering a trove of dangerous materials:
- Bomb-making and firearms manuals
- Over 50 extremist ideological texts
- White supremacist, homophobic and racist images/videos
- Chat logs with explicit extremist discussions
The boy was identified as the UK leader of the global online extremist group, Feuerkrieg Division (FKD), which he had joined aged just 14. He was responsible for recruiting and vetting like-minded individuals, including one who later got convicted for planning a UK terror attack.
Police Warn of Rising Online Radicalisation
“The young age of the offender combined with the extreme hatred displayed and the quick progression of his role within the worldwide extremist group brings into sharp focus the real and clear danger of online radicalisation,”
— Cornwall Commander, Chief Superintendent Jim Pearce
He added that extremist groups like FKD “have no place in our society” and pledged to continue efforts to tackle online terrorism.
“The story of this individual and the impact those choices have had serves as a timely reminder of the potential extremism that can lie beyond every computer and phone screen,”
— Detective Inspector Mark Samuel, Counter Terrorism Policing South West
Parents Urged to Watch Kids’ Online Activity
Police highlighted the surge in online threats during lockdown, when young people are more isolated and vulnerable. They urge parents and carers to have open conversations and to spot warning signs of radical changes in behaviour.
Support and information are available at the Act Early website, which offers advice on identifying radicalisation and connects families with expert help outside policing.
