A 14-year-old boy from Eastleigh near Southampton has been charged with plotting a terror attack.
The teen – who cannot be named for legal reasons – was arrested by officers from Hampshire Constabulary on Friday before being further arrested by detectives from the counter-terrorism command.
He has now been charged with preparing an act of terrorism, connect to Islamist terrorism.
It is unknown at this stage where the intended target was.
A spokesperson from Counter Terrorism Policing South East (CTPSE) has said:
“We know that the community of Eastleigh might be concerned about this news, however Hampshire Constabulary have been working closely with colleagues in Counter Terrorism Policing South East on this investigation and we want to reassure you that we believe the investigation is isolated, and with no known wider risk to the community.
“If you think you have seen something suspicious that may be linked to terrorist activity, have the confidence to share those concerns. It may be unusual behaviour in a particular place or at a particular time of day – don’t rely on others.”
The boy will appear before Westminster Magistrates Court tomorrow (Thursday).
What a bleak world we now live in.. (sigh)
As a parent we hope that our children remain children for as long as possible. For a 14 year old to want to act like this is truly chilling.
Another poor soul brainwashed into committing or planning terrible acts.
Lost for words! What a horrible world we live in!
It’s a wonderful world its some people who are horrible
What did his parents think he was doing or more likely didn’t care