14-year-old teenager arrested for right-wing extremist terror attack in west London

A 14-year-old boy was arrested for possession of right-wing extremist terrorist materials.

The teenager was arrested on Wednesday on suspicion of possessing information that could be of use to a person committing or preparing a terrorist attack.

He was taken to a police station in west London and later released on bail until early August.

Metropolitan Police officers searched a house in west London; investigations are ongoing.

Police warned that about a fifth of all those arrested for terrorist offences last year were under 18 years old.

In response, the Metropolitan Police called on the public to act early if there are warning signs that a child may be drifting towards extremism or terrorism.

Commander Dominic Murphy, head of the Metropolitan Police Counter Terrorism Command, said: “This arrest is indicative of a continuing and worrying trend of young people being drawn into and involved in terrorist activities.

He added: “That’s why it’s so important for parents, friends and family to be alert to warning signs that a child is drifting towards extremism or terrorism. And they must ACT early by contacting us for advice and support before it’s too late.”

If you are worried about someone, you can contact the ACT Early website for advice, guidance and support. You can also call the ACT Early Support Line on 0800 011 3764 between 9am and 5pm every day and share your concerns in confidence with our specially trained staff.