Twelve individuals have been apprehended in connection with a potential right-wing extremist threat directed at an Islamic gathering held at a rural estate in Suffolk, as confirmed by law enforcement authorities.
The UK Ijtima event at Shrubland Hall was cut short on Sunday as a precautionary measure due to the perceived threat, according to Counter Terrorism Police London.
Commander Helen Flanagan, overseeing Counter Terrorism Policing London, acknowledged the swift response in making multiple arrests across the country following intelligence on a serious threat to the Islamic event.
Expressing gratitude to Suffolk Police for their assistance in addressing the situation, Flanagan emphasized the collaboration that led to the prompt declaration of a major incident on Sunday. She also commended the event organizers and the affected public for their cooperation.
Addressing public concerns, Flanagan reassured that the early conclusion of the event was managed safely. She highlighted the heightened threat level in the UK and emphasized the need for public vigilance and reporting of suspicious activities.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood praised the police intervention in thwarting a “credible threat” to the UK Ijtima festival, emphasizing the importance of unity and standing against hatred to maintain a welcoming and tolerant society for all.
The event, attended by 15,000 individuals, faced a challenging and rapidly evolving situation, according to Suffolk Constabulary Assistant Chief Constable Alice Scott. A major incident status was declared and coordinated efforts ensured the safe departure of all attendees from the location.
Despite the complex nature of the threat, all attendees left the premises without incident, confirmed the Suffolk Resilience Forum.
Among the arrested individuals, eight have been detained under the Terrorism Act 2000. Notably, three men in their 50s and 60s, along with an 82-year-old man, were apprehended in Surrey on suspicion of conspiracy to murder. Additionally, a 48-year-old woman was arrested in east London on suspicion of aiding an offender.
