Surrey terrorism incident: Man armed with baseball bat and knife shouts racist comments as he attacks teenager
Police have declared a terrorist incident after a 19 year-old man was stabbed in an attack believed to be inspired by the far right.
A 50 year-old man from Stanwell has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and racially aggravated public order following the assault in Stanwell, Surrey, on Saturday night.
Counter-terrorism officers are leading the investigation into the incident, which left the teenager in hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu said: “Whilst this investigation is still in its infancy, it has hallmarks of a terror event, inspired by the far right, and therefore it has been declared a terrorism incident,” said Mr Basu.
Surrey Police said they were first called to reports of a man acting aggressively and shouting racist abuse while carrying a baseball bat and a knife in Viola Avenue, Stanwell, just before 10.30pm.
Mr Basu added: “Police are committed to tackling all forms of toxic extremist ideology, which has the potential to threaten public safety and security.
“Local officers will be out and about providing reassurance and protective security advice to communities, places of worship and businesses.
“Our utmost priority is keeping the public safe. Counter Terrorism Policing and security partners continue to work tirelessly to stop and disrupt attacks in the UK and to prevent people from being drawn into violent extremism.
“Police also routinely carry out daily activities to provide protection and security to the public, institutions and businesses. This activity remains under constant review to counter the threats that the UK is facing.”
“The public also has a part to play – and I would urge everyone to remain vigilant and report anything suspicious to police.”?
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