Update on Counter Terrorism Investigation into suspected PKK activity

A seventh person has been arrested as part of an investigation by the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command into suspected activity linked to the proscribed group Kurdistan Workers Party known as the ‘PKK’.

The 31-year-old man [G] was arrested this afternoon in west London. He has been detained under section 41(1) of the Terrorism Act 2000, and is in custody at a London police station.

This follows the arrest of six others ([A] a 59-year-old woman, [B] a 27-year-old man, [C] a 31-year-old woman, [D] a 62-year-old man, [E] a 56-year-old man and [F] a 23-year-old man) earlier this morning (27 November) in connection with the ongoing investigation. They were all detained under section 41(1) of the Terrorism Act 2000, and remain in custody at a London police station.

Acting Commander Helen Flanagan from the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command said: “I want to stress that today’s arrests are targeted specifically at those we believe may be involved in suspected terrorist activity.

“We understand these arrests have caused some concern amongst certain local communities – particularly those in the Kurdish community. I want to reassure the community that our activity is being carried out to keep everyone safe from potential harm, including those within the Kurdish community itself.

“I would also ask that people avoid speculating or sharing unverified details online about this activity. Local officers will continue to be present in the area over the coming days to provide reassurance to local residents and I would urge anyone with concerns to speak with these officers.

“Local officers will also continue to hold meetings with community leaders, the local authority and local resident and community groups to keep them updated directly on the progress of this investigation.”

A group of protestors gathered in the vicinity of the Kurdish Community Centre following the arrest of six people this morning on suspicion of terrorism offences linked to the PKK.

Officers continue to carry out search activity at the Community Centre as part of the ongoing investigation, and it remains closed to the public at this time.

Additional officers have also been deployed to the area in relation to the protest activity and are engaging with the protest group. Four protestors from among the group have been arrested, although the arrests are not directly connected to the investigation into the seven people arrested by the Counter Terrorism Command.

We will continue to have local officers in the neighbourhood over the coming day to engage with any members of the local community who may be concerned following arrests by the Counter Terrorism Command this morning.

We recognise the impact that this action has on our communities and we will work hard to support them together with partners.

Anyone with concerns or information relating to the investigation or activities of the PKK can contact police in confidence on 0800 789 321 or via www.gov.uk/ACT

Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or by visiting their website www.crimestoppers-uk.org