London (Monitoring Desk) — British police have charged a 14-year-old boy with terrorism-related offences after alleging that he was planning attacks on two mosques in south London.
According to authorities, the suspect is allegedly linked to far-right extremist ideology. A news agency reported that he was initially arrested last week on suspicion of damaging a vehicle. However, during subsequent searches, investigators allegedly recovered documents and other materials that led to charges under laws relating to the preparation of terrorist acts.
Head of the UK's Counter Terrorism Policing, Helen Flanagan, said that a case of this nature involving a minor is extremely serious and that it is understandable for local communities and the public to be concerned.
Police said that the initial investigation uncovered evidence suggesting the suspect was preparing for a terrorist act. However, no evidence has so far emerged indicating that he was connected to any larger or organized extremist network.
Authorities added that, as a precautionary measure, they have contacted the affected mosques and are providing them with the necessary security support and assistance.