Counter terror police investigating threat to Islamic event charge man with weapons offences

Police say a man has been charged with weapons offences as they continue their investigation into a suspected threat to an Islamic event in Suffolk last week.

The 42-year-old, who has not been named, was charged with three offences, after he was among 12 people arrested in connection with the investigation on Sunday 12 and Monday 13 July.

While four of those were released on police bail, eight others were detained under section 41 of the Terrorism Act, enabling them to be held for up to seven days from their arrest.

Seven of those men were released from custody without charge on Saturday 18 July, while another man was freed on bail with strict conditions pending further enquiries.

Counter Terrorism Policing had earlier opened an investigation into a suspected threat against the UK Ijtima event held at Shrubland Hall, Suffolk, from 9-12 July.

Following the recovery of certain items during searches carried out as part of the investigation, the 42-year-old man has been charged with two offences linked to possession of offensive weapons - namely extendable batons - as well as possession of a stun gun.

He has been remanded in custody to appear at Reading Magistrates' Court on Monday 20 July.

Police said the items recovered and the offences he has been charged with are not believed to be connected to the alleged threat being investigated.

A thirteenth man was also arrested on Thursday 16 July on suspicion of an offence under section 5 of the Terrorism Act.

Commander Helen Flanagan, Head of Counter Terrorism Policing London, said: "This has been a fast-moving investigation after we became aware of information to indicate there was a potential threat towards the Islamic event over the course of last weekend.

"Since then, we have made extensive enquiries, but at this time, we have found no evidence to support anyone being charged with any offences linked to the alleged threat.

"While I know this may still be very concerning to the public and particularly to those in the Muslim community, I want to reassure them that our enquiries are ongoing. Should we identify any potential offences or threats to the public then we will not hesitate to take further action.

"I want to reiterate my thanks to the event organisers and to the local community in the area for their continued support and understanding as our investigation continues."

Detective Chief Superintendent Paul Wells, from Suffolk Constabulary, said: "We've had a visible and active police presence in the community around Shrubland Hall during the week.

"I repeat our earlier message of gratitude for the patience, support and understanding shown by local residents and others, during last weekend and since. We will continue to support our Counter Terrorism Policing colleagues with this live investigation as required."

(c) Sky News 2026: Counter terror police investigating threat to Islamic event charge man with weapons offences