Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police
A man has been charged with terrorism and firearms offences, following an investigation by the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command.
Alfie Douglas Coleman, 19 (18.06.04) of Essex, was charged on Wednesday, 11 October with the following offences:
– Preparation of terrorist acts (contrary to Section 5 of the Terrorism Act 2000)
– Collecting information likely to be useful for terrorism (contrary to section 58 of the Terrorism Act 2000)
– Possession of a firearm (contrary to Section 5 of the Firearms Act 1968)
– Possession of ammunition (contrary to Section 1 of the Firearms Act 1968)
Coleman is in custody and will appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, 12 October.
The charges were authorised by the Crown Prosecution Service’s Counter Terrorism Division.
Commander Dominic Murphy, who leads the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command, said: “I appreciate that charges of this nature may well be concerning to the public. Whilst we can’t comment on the details of the case now legal proceedings are active, I want to reassure the public that we do not believe that there is any enduring threat.
“Our officers work around the clock to identify and disrupt terrorist activity, but we can only do that with the public’s support and we would ask them to continue to remain vigilant and if they see or hear anything that doesn’t feel right, then to get in touch. You won’t ruin anyone’s life, but you could help save them.”
Coleman was arrested in east London on Friday, 29 September as part of a pre-planned operation, and detained under Section 41 of the Terrorism Act 2000.
He was taken into custody at a London police station.
A warrant of further detention was obtained from Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Saturday, 30 September, allowing police to detain him until Friday, 6 October.
A second warrant of further detention was granted at the same court on Friday, 6 October which meant officers could keep him in custody for a further seven days – until Friday, 13 October.
He was subsequently charged as detailed above.
The investigation, which has been supported by the Eastern Region Special Operations Unit (ERSOU), relates to extreme right-wing terrorism.
+ Communities defeat terrorism, and information from the public is vital to counter terrorism investigations. If you see or hear something unusual or suspicious and think someone may be engaging in terrorist activity, trust your instincts and act by reporting it in confidence at gov.uk/ACT or the anti-terrorist hotline on 0800 789 321. In an emergency, dial 999.
Visit the ACT Early website to find out how you can seek help and support for anyone who you suspect may be being radicalised.
Terrorist content can be reported online and anonymously. It can also be reported via the “iREPORTit” app.