Latest arrest stats prompt calls for vigilance

In light of the latest terrorism-related arrest statistics, Counter Terrorism Policing has urged communities to stand ‘shoulder to shoulder’ and continue to report any concerns.

The Home Office’s quarterly figures relating to the police’s use of powers under the Terrorism Act 2000 have revealed that there were 186 counter-terrorism related arrests in the year to December 2021, a fall of one per cent on the previous calendar year.

Despite this is the lowest number of arrests in a calendar year since 2011, senior officers are asking the public to remain alert, and report any suspicious activity.

Of the 186 arrests 57 resulted in a charge, of which 49 were charged with terrorism-related offences. Out of those arrested, 11 per cent were under 18, while the 30 and over age-group accounted for the largest number of arrests at 52 per cent.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Dean Haydon, said: “In the last six months of 2021, we saw two terrorist attacks happen on the streets of the UK. These incidents were a stark reminder that the risk is still there, and that it can affect any community at any time.

“I know it’s difficult to talk about a terrorist attacks happening where you live, in the places you know, or love, but it’s important that we do – because it helps reinforce that message, that everyone has a part to play in defeating terrorism.”