British boy (14) held over Australia terror plot

A 14-year-old boy has been arrested in Britain over an alleged terror plot in Australia.

The teenager was held in Blackburn, Lancashire, on Saturday on suspicion of being concerned in the commission, preparation, or instigation of acts of terrorism, Greater Manchester Police said.

Officers have passed information to Australian authorities.

Detective Chief Superintendent Tony Mole, from the North West Counter Terrorism Unit (NWCTU), said: “We have uncovered communication between an individual in the North West and a man in Australia to what we believe is a credible terrorist threat.

“As soon as this information came to light we acted quickly with the relevant authorities here and abroad and this has resulted with officers from the NWCTU arresting a teenager.

“The nature of the communication is currently under full assessment and subject to investigation.”

Police stressed there is no indication of any imminent threat in the UK.

“We are continuing to work closely with the police in Australia and Lancashire and I want to reassure the public that we have not uncovered an imminent attack in the UK and there is no immediate threat towards the communities of Lancashire, the North West and the UK.

“It is important to remind communities and families to bring to our attention anyone they perceive may be vulnerable or in danger of escalating towards terrorism.

“We have the ability to engage and support individuals where necessary.”

Counter terrorism officers executed a warrant at an address in Blackburn on April 2nd following the examination of a number of electronic devices.

The teenager was arrested then on suspicion of preparing for an act of terrorism.

He was further arrested on Saturday on suspicion of being concerned in the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism . He remains in custody.

PA