London (Parliament Politics Magazine) – London’s counter-terrorism police have detained six people on suspicion of links to the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) during raids in multiple areas. Police confirmed no immediate danger to the public.
Six individuals have been arrested in London by counter-terrorism officers as part of an investigation into the banned Kurdistan Workers Party.
During raids in London on Wednesday, four men and two women were arrested from separate locations and are in custody, according to the Metropolitan Police.
Police released a statement reporting that the incident’s suspects include a 59-year-old woman, a 27-year-old man, a 31-year-old woman, a 62-year-old man, a 56-year-old man, and a 23-year-old man who have been arrested under section 41 of the Terrorism Act 2000.
The PKK group is desiring an independent Kurdish state in southeast Turkey and is listed as an extremist organization by the UK.
Forces are conducting search operations at eight different locations, including the Kurdish Community Centre in Haringey, north London, this investigation may continue for up to two weeks.
In the coming days, local police officers will conduct patrols, and there will be an increase in police presence, with force officials available to speak and discuss concerns from the public.
Helen Flanagan, Acting Commander of the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command stated, “This activity has come about following a significant investigation and operation into activity we believe is linked to the terrorist group PKK. These are targeted arrests of those we suspect of being involved in terrorist activity linked to the group.”
She added, “I hope that these arrests show that we will not tolerate any sort of terrorist activity and that we will take action where we believe there is harm being caused to communities here, in the UK or elsewhere.”
“This operation is focused on safeguarding all communities, with particular attention to our Turkish and Kurdish populations,” said Acting Commander Flanagan. “I urge anyone who feels they have been impacted or targeted by PKK affiliates to reach out.”
The Metropolitan Police also urged anyone with concerns or information about the investigation or PKK activities to contact them anonymously at 0800 789 321 or visit www.gov.uk/ACT.
The terrorist group PKK is banned in Britain, the EU, and the US. Turkish officials have criticized European and US leaders, including NATO partners, and allies for not doing enough to crack down on the group’s illegal activities, which included drug trafficking, money laundering, and extortion.