British police announced Saturday that their investigation into an alleged threat against an Islamic religious event in eastern England last weekend has turned up no evidence sufficient to charge anyone with a terrorism-related offense.
The incident prompted the arrest of thirteen individuals between Sunday and Thursday, after authorities learned of what they described as a “potential serious threat” directed at a religious gathering attended by roughly 15,000 people at a country house in Suffolk.
Eight of those arrested were detained under the Terrorism Act. By Saturday, seven of the eight had been released without any charges filed against them.
The eighth man, age 42, was charged — but not in connection with the alleged threat. He faces charges related to possession of offensive weapons, specifically extendable batons, as well as possession of a stun gun. Those items were discovered during searches conducted as part of the investigation. Police clarified that those charges are not believed to be tied to the original threat.
Commander Helen Flanagan, who leads Counter Terrorism Policing London, addressed the outcome in an official statement: “We have found no evidence to support anyone being charged with any offences linked to the alleged threat.”
Flanagan added that the investigation remains active and that authorities will not hesitate to act if any new threats to public safety are identified.
During the course of the investigation, officers searched homes and vehicles and confiscated more than 35 digital devices.
The development comes after Britain elevated its national terrorism threat level to “severe” back in April — a designation indicating that an attack is considered highly likely.
Interior minister Shabana Mahmood acknowledged last week that the arrests would likely be a source of concern for British Muslims. Flanagan echoed that sentiment Saturday, saying she wanted to offer reassurance to the Muslim community that the inquiry is continuing.
