Counter-Terrorism Officers Make Four Arrests in Eastbourne and Brighton Operation

A major counter-terrorism operation led by specialist firearms officers has taken place in Eastbourne and Brighton today (4 December), with four people arrested on suspicion of involvement in extreme right-wing terrorism. Counter Terrorism Policing South East (CTPSE) confirmed that the arrests were part of a planned, intelligence-led investigation into suspected extremist activity. A 27-year-old woman […]

A major counter-terrorism operation led by specialist firearms officers has taken place in Eastbourne and Brighton today (4 December), with four people arrested on suspicion of involvement in extreme right-wing terrorism.

Counter Terrorism Policing South East (CTPSE) confirmed that the arrests were part of a planned, intelligence-led investigation into suspected extremist activity.

A 27-year-old woman from Hailsham and three men from Eastbourne, aged 33, 36 and 41, were detained under Section 41 of the Terrorism Act 2000. All four suspects are currently in police custody.

Residents reported seeing counter-terrorist specialist firearms officers in the Langney Rise area of Eastbourne as police carried out the operation. Officers remain on scene as search activity continues at multiple residential properties.

Sussex Police Assistant Chief Constable Steve Rayland moved to reassure the public, emphasising that the arrests were pre-planned and not in response to any immediate threat.

“I am aware that investigations of this nature can cause people in the local community to feel concerned, but I’d like to stress the arrests form part of a planned operation to keep people in our communities safe,” he said.

“Counter Terrorism Policing South East is leading this investigation with support from our officers in Sussex Police. People living in the local area may notice an increased police presence while search activity takes place, which is routine in cases of this nature. Please speak to a police officer if you have any concerns or any information which may be relevant.”

CTPSE has not released further details at this stage, and enquiries remain ongoing.