News

Tameside boy charged with attempt to acquire biological toxin in ‘terror’ probe

A Tameside boy, 16, has been charged with attempting to acquire a biological toxin, following his arrest on Monday.

The teenager, who is too young to be named, has now been charged with attempting to acquire the biological agent contrary to the Criminal Attempts Act 1981.

Searches were executed at Hanover Street and Spring Mill Drive in Mossley on February 16, following an investigation by the North West Counter Terrorism Unit.

The counter-terrorism crackdown also saw a girl, 16, arrested from another Tameside address, but who was released this morning without charge.

Despite the charges, police have stressed that there is no evidence to suggest thar communities within Mossley or Greater Manchester are at risk with regards to the investigation.

Speaking about the incident earlier this week Greater Manchester Police Chief Superintendent Caroline Ball said: “I stress there is no current threat to either the Mossley community or wider and there is no reason to be unduly worried.

“If anyone is concerned, please approach one of local officers who will be happy to speak to you.”

The boy will now remain in custody until he appears before the Youth Bench at Tameside Magistrates’ Court tomorrow.

Anyone with concerns about suspicious activity should contact local officers or the confidential Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321.

Image courtesy of Google Maps, with thanks.

Related Articles