UK teen charged over alleged far-right plot against mosques
A 14-year-old boy has been charged with terrorism offenses for allegedly planning to attack mosques in south London, linked to extreme right-wing ideology.
British police announced Wednesday that a 14-year-old boy has been charged with "preparation of terrorist acts" over an alleged plot to target mosques in London. The suspect was first arrested on July 9 for criminal damage to a car, but subsequent searches uncovered documents leading to a charge of "conduct in preparation for giving effect to an intention to conduct acts of terrorism" in connection with extreme right-wing ideology.
Helen Flanagan, head of counterterrorism policing in London, described the charge as "very serious" and acknowledged it would be concerning to the public and local community. Police have contacted the mosques, located in the Sutton area of south London, and offered advice and support.
Authorities believe there is no wider threat linked to this case. The suspect is scheduled to appear before a magistrates' court in London on Thursday.
This incident is the latest in a series of alleged plots or attacks targeting Muslims in the UK. Earlier this week, police arrested 12 people over an extreme right-wing plot to target an Islamic gathering in Suffolk. Last month, a man was charged with attempted murder linked to terrorism after an anti-Muslim stabbing rampage in Edinburgh.
Detective Chief Superintendent Nick Blackburn, who oversees local policing in south London, said authorities will work to provide reassurance and support to the Muslim community and stressed the cumulative impact of such incidents.
