London Arrests Spark Protests Amid Investigation Into Kurdish Terror Links

[Social Media]

 

In a high-profile counter-terrorism operation in London, seven individuals have been arrested over alleged connections to the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), a group banned in the UK, US, and Turkey as a terrorist organization. The arrests were carried out by the Metropolitan Police early on Wednesday, with two women, aged 59 and 31, and four men, aged 27, 62, 56, and 23, detained at separate addresses. A seventh suspect, a 31-year-old man, was apprehended later in the day in west London. All seven are currently in custody under the Terrorism Act.

PKK supporters clash with police in London’s Harringay after six arrests linked to the terrorist group; tensions escalate as protesters resist pic.twitter.com/mIb8DQqJSq

— Türkiye Today (@turkiyetodaycom) November 27, 2024

 

Authorities have stated there is no immediate threat to public safety related to the ongoing investigation. The PKK, which has been engaged in conflict with the Turkish government since the 1980s, campaigns for increased rights for Turkey's Kurdish population.

 

 

As part of the probe, officers have begun searches at eight locations across the city, including the Kurdish Community Centre in Haringey. The searches, anticipated to last up to two weeks, have temporarily closed the centre and its surrounding area to the public.

PKK supporters clash with police in London following arrests in terrorism probe ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/N4ejlBWYVK

— Anadolu English (@anadoluagency) November 28, 2024

 

The arrests prompted large crowds to gather outside the Kurdish Community Centre, with tensions escalating into the evening. Videos from the scene depict police officers forming lines and pushing back protesters. Scotland Yard later confirmed the arrest of four demonstrators for alleged offences, including support for a proscribed organization, assaulting an emergency worker, making threats to kill, and a racially aggravated public order offence.

 

The operation has drawn sharp criticism from Kurdish community representatives. Ishak Milani, of the Kurdish People’s Assembly in the UK, described the police action as "unjust and heavy-handed." He stated, “This aggressive act is not only an attack on our people but also an affront to the principles of democracy, justice, and human rights that the UK claims to uphold.”

 

The Metropolitan Police defended their actions, asserting that the arrests were part of a "targeted operation" aimed at those suspected of terrorist activities linked to the PKK. Acting Commander Helen Flanagan acknowledged the concerns raised within the Kurdish community, stating, “We understand these arrests have caused some concern amongst certain local communities – particularly those in the Kurdish community.”

 

Commander Flanagan emphasized the gravity of the allegations, describing them as "very serious" and a result of a "significant investigation." She added, “This investigation and activity is about protecting all of our communities, but particularly those in our Turkish and Kurdish communities.”

The Met has encouraged anyone who believes they have been affected or targeted by individuals connected to the PKK to come forward. To address community concerns, officers plan to meet with local leaders and will increase their presence in the area over the coming days.

 

Based on a report by BBC 2024-11-29