Two 14-year-old boys have been charged with conspiracy to murder after they were arrested by counter-terror police.
The teenagers, from the market town of Northallerton, North Yorkshire, were arrested on Saturday by the north-east counter-terrorism unit. Both were charged with conspiracy to murder, and one faces another charge of aggravated burglary.
They are due to appear in custody at Leeds magistrates court on Thursday.
Detectives had been granted extra time to question the boys after they were detained on suspicion of hatching a terror plot. Police raided three residential addresses, including the boys’ homes, over the weekend relating to what police believe was an isolated incident.
Northallerton school, a small state school in the town, has become the focus of the investigation, according to parents of pupils, who have claimed there were fears for the safety of staff and children.
Phil Cain, the assistant chief constable of North Yorkshire police, said: “Officers believe that this is an isolated incident and the wider community are not at risk. We appreciate the cooperation of local residents whilst the investigation continues.”
A spokesman for North Yorkshire county council said: “Northallerton school is supporting the police in their investigation. Police continue to investigate with an open mind to establish what, if any, offences have been committed.
“The school understands that parents and carers may have concerns as a result of these arrests. We would like to reassure them that the safety of the school is paramount and we are working with the police to support our students and prioritise their safety at all times.”
The teenagers were interviewed on suspicion of preparing for an act of terrorism under section five of the Terrorism Act 2006 after intense police activity in Northallerton.
