14-year-old arrested for 'far-right' terror offense in west London

A 14-year-old boy has been arrested for possessing far-right terrorist material.

The teenager was arrested on Wednesday on suspicion of possessing information likely to be useful to a person committing or preparing an act of terrorism.

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

Met police searched a house in west London and investigations are still ongoing.

Police have warned that around a fifth of all people arrested for terrorist offenses last year were aged under 18.

In response, the Met Police have called on people to act quickly if there are warning signs that a child could be drawn into extremism or terrorism.

Commander Dominic Murphy, head of the Met's counter-terrorism command, said: “This arrest is indicative of an ongoing and worrying trend of young people being trained and involved in terrorism-related activities.

He added: “This is why it is so important that parents, friends and family are alert to any warning signs that a child may be drawn into extremism or terrorism and that they “ ACT early” by contacting us for advice and support before it’s too late.”

Anyone with concerns about someone can go to ACT Early website for advice, guidance and support. People can also call the ACT Early Helpline every day between 9am and 5pm on 0800 011 3764, in confidence, to share your concerns with our specially trained agents.