All articles tagged with #counter terrorism
Counter-terrorism police are investigating a suspected arson at the former East London Central Synagogue in Whitechapel, with CCTV indicating the fire was started deliberately. The building has not functioned as a synagogue since 2020; investigators are examining links to recent anti-Semitic attacks as the threat level remains severe. No injuries were reported, and security support is being provided to Jewish communities.
A 37-year-old man was arrested in Devon on suspicion of preparing terrorist acts as part of an ongoing counter-terrorism investigation into a string of attacks on London’s Jewish community, including assaults on synagogues and Hatzola ambulances; police have made 26 arrests in connection with the probe, with several charged with arson, as authorities vow to continue pursuing those responsible and to combat intimidation.
Counter-terrorism police in London have arrested two more suspects (a 19-year-old and a 26-year-old) in Watford as part of an ongoing probe into an alleged arson plot targeting a Jewish-site. Nine people have been arrested in three days, with others released on bail, as investigators probe a series of arson attacks in north‑west London against Jewish sites, ambulances, and a charity—and related incidents such as a drone near the Israeli embassy—while authorities pledge increased patrols and public reassurance.
Counter-terrorism officers are investigating an arson attempt on a Hendon business, while CT teams are also reviewing related suspected arson attacks on a Persian-language media outlet, a Finchley synagogue, and ambulances for a Jewish charity in Golders Green; the Hendon incident is not being treated as terrorism and no arrests have been made, but police have boosted patrols and are pursuing possible links.
French police thwarted an apparent bomb attack outside a Bank of America branch in Paris, arresting a man as he prepared to ignite a device made from a five‑litre liquid container and about 650 grams of powder; a second suspect fled. The counter-terrorism prosecutor’s office has opened an anti-terror probe, with Paris judicial police and DGSI leading the investigation. The interior minister praised the rapid response, and authorities note the case appears to involve a “terrorist criminal conspiracy” amid heightened vigilance in Europe, with the suspect allegedly recruited via Snapchat for around 600 euros and linked to broader tensions targeting US/Israeli interests.
A 23-year-old man from New York drove to a Las Vegas suburb, crashed a rented Nissan into a power-substation gate, and fatally shot himself; police treat the episode as terrorism-related after finding firearms, flame-throwers, and an array of explosives materials (thermite, ammonium nitrate) plus extremist literature in his hotel room. The FBI and LVPD say there is no ongoing threat, but it’s considered a credible counter-terrorism event, with Albany-area searches uncovering gun parts and a 3D printer.
The US conducted air strikes in Nigeria targeting terrorists, which could strengthen Nigeria's counter-terrorism efforts through improved intelligence and resources but also risk undermining sovereignty and causing political divisions if not properly managed.
Turkey detained 357 suspected IS members across 21 provinces in coordinated operations following recent clashes and threats, including attacks planned for the New Year, with ongoing efforts to combat terrorism linked to the group near Syria's border.
Two Iowa National Guard soldiers and one civilian were killed, and three others injured, in an attack in Syria during counter-ISIS operations, prompting condolences and support from Iowa officials.
A mass stabbing attack on a London-bound train in the UK resulted in 10 people hospitalized, nine with life-threatening injuries. Two suspects were arrested, and the incident is being investigated as a potential terror attack, with police support from counter-terrorism units. The attack occurred near Huntingdon station, causing major disruption and prompting a swift police response.
Counter-terror police arrested four individuals after a break-in at RAF Brize Norton, where activists from Palestine Action spray-painted military planes, claiming to have caused damage and disrupted operations. The incident has led to a government move to proscribe Palestine Action as a terrorist group, and prompted a security review of UK military bases. The activists evaded security measures, and the government emphasized that no aircraft operations were halted.
The UK counter-terrorism authorities have requested the removal of the pro-Palestinian shooter game 'Fursan al-Aqsa: The Knights of the Al-Aqsa Mosque' from Steam's UK store. The game's developer, Nidal Nijm, expressed frustration over the decision, citing double standards compared to other shooter games like Call of Duty. The game remains available in other regions, including the US, but has faced bans in Germany and Australia due to classification issues.
John Bolton, former national security adviser, criticized Sebastian Gorka, President Trump's pick for counter-terrorism chief, labeling him a 'conman' and unfit for the role. Bolton, who has opposed several of Trump's appointments, argues that Gorka's selection undermines counter-terrorism efforts. Gorka, known for his far-right views and controversial statements, has faced criticism from both Bolton and the Democratic National Committee for his qualifications and extremist positions.
Russia is suspected of plotting to send incendiary devices on planes, potentially targeting the U.S., according to sources. Four individuals in Poland have been charged with sending camouflaged explosives that detonated during transport in the U.K. The plot aimed to test parcel transfer channels to the U.S. and Canada. The U.K. and U.S. authorities are investigating, with no current active threat to U.S.-bound flights. The TSA has implemented additional security measures for cargo shipments.
An incendiary device hidden in a DHL package that caught fire in Germany was part of a suspected Russian sabotage plot targeting the UK, potentially as a dry run for similar attacks on the US and Canada. The device, concealed in shipments of massage pillows and erotic gadgets, was feared capable of downing a plane. Similar devices were found in Poland, leading to arrests. Authorities suspect Russia's involvement as retaliation for Western support to Ukraine, though Russia denies the allegations.