Eastbourne man charged in Sussex counter-terror investigation

A 33-year-old man from Eastbourne has been formally charged today in connection with a major investigation into suspected extreme-right wing terrorism in Sussex. The suspect, named as Thomas Smith of Blakes Way, was charged with seven counts of “encouragement of terrorism” under Section 1 of the Terrorism Act 2006. Smith was one of four individuals […]

A 33-year-old man from Eastbourne has been formally charged today in connection with a major investigation into suspected extreme-right wing terrorism in Sussex.

The suspect, named as Thomas Smith of Blakes Way, was charged with seven counts of “encouragement of terrorism” under Section 1 of the Terrorism Act 2006.

Smith was one of four individuals arrested during coordinated raids on 4 December in the Eastbourne and Brighton areas. According to authorities, the broader operation was intelligence-led, targeting suspected extremist activity in the region.

Following further investigations, the other three individuals — a 27-year-old woman from Hailsham and two men (aged 36 and 41) from Eastbourne — were released without charge after questioning. Smith has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear before Westminster Magistrates’ Court tomorrow (11 December).

Authorities say the case underlines their ongoing commitment to disrupting extremist threats and protecting local communities. The investigation remains ongoing.