UPDATE – Ongoing Counter Terrorism Investigation

An investigation by the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command into suspected activity linked to the proscribed terrorist group the PKK continues and seven people arrested remain in custody.

Warrants of further detention were obtained on Tuesday 3 December, meaning that all seven [A-G] can be detained in police custody until Monday 9 December.

Searches being carried out at eight addresses across London as part of this investigation have also now been completed and all venues have been returned to the respective owners.

Acting Commander Helen Flanagan, from the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command, said: “Our officers continue to work around the clock to gather and review evidence as part of this investigation into what are very serious allegations.

“I want to reiterate that this investigation is being conducted with complete operational independence and ask that people to avoid speculating or sharing unverified information either online or elsewhere.

“As we’ve previously stated, these arrests have been targeted at specific individuals suspected of being linked to terrorist activity. I want to reassure the community that our activity is being carried out to keep everyone safe from potential harm."

On Wednesday, 27 November, seven people [A-G] were arrested at locations across London:

[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, [F] a 23-year-old man, and [G] a 31-year-old man

They were all detained under section 41(1) of the Terrorism Act, 2000, and remain in police custody at this time.

As part of the ongoing investigation, officers have also applied for and obtained Account Freezing Orders in respect of two financial accounts that they believe may be being used to support or fund terrorist activity linked to the PKK. Relevant parties with an interest in the accounts have been contacted directly to make them aware of this action.

Detective Chief Superintendent Caroline Haines, who leads local policing for the Haringey area, said: “We are very aware of the ongoing impact this investigation is having on the local community – particularly those from the Kurdish community.

“We continue to hold regular meetings with Kurdish community members to keep them updated and address any concerns during what is a difficult time for them. We have liaised closely with representatives from the Community Centre while searches have been ongoing there, and we recognise the impact of it being closed while officers have been carrying out important searches there as part of their investigation.

“Today, (5 December) we have been able to return the Centre to its owners and local officers will continue to work with them to provide any assistance we can, so that they can reopen it for community use as quickly as possible.

“I want to thank the local community and residents for their ongoing support and understanding and should anyone have concerns, then please get in touch with me or my local officers so that we can work with you to keep everyone safe.”

There continues to be an increased police presence in the affected areas in Haringey and local neighbourhoods officers are carrying out additional patrols and engaging with residents to address any concerns.

Local officers are also continuing to hold meetings with community leaders, the local authority and local resident and community groups to keep them updated and informed about the progress of this investigation.

Anyone with information relating to the investigation or potential terrorist activity can contact police in confidence on 0800 789 321or via www.gov.uk/ACT

Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.