London Mosque Plot: Teen Charged Over Terrorism Offence

Suspect is charged with ‘preparation of terrorist acts – linked to extreme right-wing terrorism’, say British police.

A 14-year-old boy has been charged with terrorism offences over an alleged plot to target London mosques, British police said.

The Metropolitan Police announced the charge against the unnamed teenager on Wednesday, stating he was suspected of preparing to commit “an act of terrorism” linked to extreme right‑wing ideology.

“This is a very serious terrorism charge against a young boy and likely to be highly concerning to the public and the local community,” said Helen Flanagan, head of counterterrorism policing in London.

Police have contacted the mosques in south London’s Sutton area, offering advice, support and reassurance. They indicated the case is not viewed as part of a wider threat.

“We know this will be particularly concerning to the Muslim community and we are working closely with the venues affected to ensure they are kept updated and to provide advice, support and reassurance, and this will continue,” said Flanagan.

The boy was initially detained on 9 July for criminal damage to a vehicle. Subsequent searches uncovered documents that led to the terrorism charge, which alleges “conduct in preparation for giving effect to an intention to conduct acts of terrorism,” according to the Metropolitan Police.

He is due to appear before a London magistrates’ court on Thursday.

The incident follows several recent alleged plots targeting Muslim communities across the United Kingdom, including an extreme‑right plot against an Islamic gathering in Suffolk and a stabbing attack in Edinburgh.

Detective Chief Superintendent Nick Blackburn, who oversees local policing in south London, said authorities will continue to provide “reassurance and support” to the Muslim community. “We should not underestimate the cumulative impact of incidents of this nature on the Muslim community,” he added.

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