Eastbourne Man Arrested in Counter Terrorism Investigation Over Alleged Support for Daesh

A man has been arrested in Eastbourne as part of a counter terrorism investigation linked to alleged support for the extremist group Daesh. Officers from Counter Terrorism Policing South East (CTPSE) arrested the 35-year-old local man on Friday, March 6, on suspicion of expressing an opinion supportive of a proscribed organisation, contrary to Section 12 […]

A man has been arrested in Eastbourne as part of a counter terrorism investigation linked to alleged support for the extremist group Daesh.

Officers from Counter Terrorism Policing South East (CTPSE) arrested the 35-year-old local man on Friday, March 6, on suspicion of expressing an opinion supportive of a proscribed organisation, contrary to Section 12 (1A) of the Terrorism Act 2000.

Police confirmed the arrest is connected to an ongoing Islamist terrorism investigation relating to posts made on social media platforms.

The man remains in police custody while enquiries continue. Officers are also carrying out a search of a property in the town as part of the investigation.

The operation was led by CTPSE officers with support from Sussex Police.

Chief Superintendent Justin Burtenshaw of Sussex Police said:

“I appreciate arrests of this nature can cause people in the local community to feel unsettled, however Sussex Police has been working closely to support our colleagues in Counter Terrorism Policing South East as part of this pre-planned operation.

“There is not believed to be any immediate risk to those in the community but I would urge anyone who has any concerns to contact police.”

Police are urging the public to remain vigilant and report anything suspicious.

Anyone who sees or hears something that could be related to terrorism is asked to contact the UK Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321. In an emergency, always dial 999.