Man charged with terrorism offences

A man from Essex has been charged with terrorism and firearms offences, following an investigation by the Metropolitan Police's Counter Terrorism Command.

Alfie Douglas Coleman was charged on Wednesday with preparation of terrorist acts (contrary to Section 5 of the Terrorism Act 2000); collecting information likely to be useful for terrorism (contrary to section 58 of the Terrorism Act 2000; possession of a firearm (contrary to Section 5 of the Firearms Act 1968; and possession of ammunition (contrary to Section 1 of the Firearms Act 1968).

Coleman was arrested in east London on Friday 29 September as part of a pre-planned operation, and detained under Section 41 of the Terrorism Act 2000.

He has been taken into custody and will appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, 12 October.

The investigation relates to extreme right-wing terrorism.

Commander Dominic Murphy, who leads the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command, said: “I appreciate that charges of this nature may well be concerning to the public. Whilst we can’t comment on the details of the case now legal proceedings are active, I want to reassure the public that we do not believe that there is any enduring threat.

“Our officers work around the clock to identify and disrupt terrorist activity, but we can only do that with the public’s support and we would ask them to continue to remain vigilant and if they see or hear anything that doesn’t feel right, then to get in touch. You won’t ruin anyone’s life, but you could help save them.”

Image by Franz P. Sauerteig from Pixabay