Twelve Arrested in UK for Far-Right Terror Threat Against Islamic Event

British police have arrested twelve people in connection with a far-right extremist terror threat targeting the UK Ijtima, an Islamic event held in Shrubland Hall, Suffolk. The arrests were made under the Terrorism Act 2000, with eight men remaining in custody. Three others were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to murder, and one woman for allegedly assisting an offender.

The event, which drew approximately 15,000 attendees, concluded early on Sunday as a precautionary measure. This decision followed police receiving information about a potentially serious threat. The investigation is being led by the London counter-terrorism unit, which confirmed the links to far-right extremism. Searches are currently underway at multiple addresses associated with the arrested individuals, who range in age from 27 to 82 and were apprehended across England, including in Manchester and London.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood stated that the police's swift response to the "credible threat" likely saved lives. She emphasized the need to confront hate and unite around shared values of an open, generous, and tolerant society. Commander Helen Flanagan of the counter-terrorism unit assured the public that police acted rapidly and that there is no perceived risk to the general population related to this specific case. The incident has raised concerns within the British Muslim community.