A 14-year-old boy has been charged with offences linked to extreme right-wing terrorism in connection with an alleged plan to target two mosques in south London, police said.
Arrest and Charges
Met Police officers initially arrested the teenager on suspicion of criminal damage of a vehicle on Thursday July 9 at an address in the south London area. A search was then carried out at the property, and the boy was subsequently arrested on suspicion of an offence under section 5 of the Terrorism Act 2006 – preparation of terrorist acts – linked to extreme right-wing terrorism, the Met Police said.
The boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, has been charged with two counts of preparing terrorist acts and one count of criminal damage. He appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Saturday July 11, where he was remanded in custody.
Alleged Plan and Investigation
According to police, the alleged plan involved targeting two mosques in the south London area. The investigation is ongoing, and officers are urging anyone with information to come forward. Detective Chief Superintendent Jane Corrigan of the Met Police's Counter Terrorism Command said: “This was a significant investigation involving a young person, and we are working closely with partners to ensure the appropriate support and safeguarding measures are in place.”
Police have not released further details about the specific mosques or the nature of the alleged plot, citing operational reasons.
Context and Community Response
The case highlights ongoing concerns about the radicalisation of young people by far-right extremist groups. Community leaders have expressed shock and called for vigilance. Imam Mohammed Ali of the Muslim Council of Britain stated: “We are deeply concerned that a child could be drawn into such violent extremism. We urge parents and communities to remain alert and to report any suspicious behaviour to the authorities.”
The Met Police confirmed that the boy is being supported by appropriate services, and the case has been referred to the Prevent programme, which aims to steer individuals away from extremism.
