A 17-year-old male has been charged with a terrorism offence and grievous bodily harm after an alleged knife attack at a college in Royal Leamington Spa. The incident, which sent shockwaves through the educational community, occurred on Monday at the Warwickshire College Group's Royal Leamington Spa campus.
The teenager, who cannot be named for legal reasons due to his age, was arrested at the scene following the alleged assault on a member of college staff. The victim, an adult staff member, sustained injuries described as non-life-threatening and received prompt medical attention.
Counter Terrorism Unit Takes Lead in Investigation
In a significant development, the case has been taken over by Counter Terrorism Policing West Midlands (CTPWM). Detective Chief Superintendent Mark Payne confirmed that the youth has been charged with preparation of terrorist acts contrary to Section 5 of the Terrorism Act 2006, alongside the charge of Section 18 grievous bodily harm.
'This is being treated as a terrorism incident,' a police spokesperson stated. 'The investigation is ongoing and being led by specialist counter terrorism officers.'
College Implements Enhanced Security Measures
Following the alarming incident, the Warwickshire College Group has implemented additional security protocols and is providing support to students and staff affected by the events. College authorities have praised the quick response of emergency services and their own staff in managing the situation.
The accused teenager appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Wednesday morning and has been remanded in custody. He is scheduled to appear at the Old Bailey on Friday for a preliminary hearing regarding the terrorism charge.
Local residents and parents have expressed concern about safety at educational institutions, while police have reassured the community that this appears to be an isolated incident with no ongoing threat to the public.
