Eight men released after investigation into alleged threat to Islamic event

Officers became aware of the threat to the UK Ijtima event at Shrubland Hall last weekend - (PA)

Eight more people have been freed from custody as police investigate an alleged extreme right-wing threat to an Islamic event in Suffolk.

Officers became aware of the threat to the UK Ijtima event last weekend. Thousands of people attended the gathering at Shrubland Hall near Ipswich, but it was forced to close early after advice from police.

Twelve people were arrested in connection with the investigation on Sunday and Monday, the Metropolitan Police said, and a thirteenth was arrested on Thursday.

Four people were released on bail Tuesday, and on Saturday officers confirmed a further seven men were released from custody without charge. Another man was freed on bail with strict conditions pending further inquiries, the force said.

It said the investigation has involved searching homes and vehicles, and more than 35 digital devices have been seized.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said police were investigating a credible threat against the event (PA)

Following those searches, a 42-year-old man has been charged with two counts of possession of offensive weapons, extendable batons, and possession of a stun gun.

The force said the offences he has been charged with are not believed to be connected to the alleged threat on UK Ijtima.

He has been remanded in custody to appear at Reading Magistrates’ Court on Monday.

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 inquiries, 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 inquiries 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.”