Man arrested in Bristol over alleged attempt to join terrorist group
Suspicious item found during search of Horfield property
A 21-year-old man from Bristol has been arrested on suspicion of attempting to join a proscribed organisation.
The arrest was carried out earlier today by officers from Counter Terrorism Policing South East, with support from Avon and Somerset Police and Counter Terrorism Policing South West.
It is alleged that the man attempted to join Daesh, an offence under section 11 of the Terrorism Act 2000.
Police presence in Horfield
People in the Horfield area of Bristol may notice an increased police presence following the arrest.
During a search of a residential property, officers discovered a suspicious item. As a precaution, the area has been cordoned off while the item is assessed, and a small number of people have been asked to leave their homes temporarily.
Chief Inspector Keith Smith, from Avon and Somerset Police, said: “We appreciate arrests of this nature can cause concern in the local community, but we’d like to reassure everybody this was part of a pre-planned operation by our colleagues at Counter Terrorism Policing South East.
“To ensure the public’s safety a cordon is now in place around a property while an object is assessed. A small number of people in nearby properties have been asked to leave their homes as a precaution.
“We appreciate the local community’s understanding while police activity takes place. If anyone has any concerns or information you think may be relevant, please don’t hesitate to speak to us.”
The arrested man remains in police custody while investigations continue.