Statistics highlight continued rise in youth arrests for terror offences

The Home Office’s quarterly release of statistics relating to the police’s use of powers under the Terrorism Act 2000 has revealed that there were 190 counter-terrorism arrests in the year to September. Children under 18 made up 16% of the total number of arrests (ie 31), a 3% increase on the previous calendar year.

Tim Jacques, senior national co-ordinator for Counter Terrorism Policing, explained: “We are concerned about the powerful adverse influence that online content is having on individuals who end up in our counter-terrorism casework. The reality is that dangerous and extremist content shared online is making it easier for individuals to self-radicalise, which in turn is driving the ever-evolving threat. This risk is increasingly manifesting itself in the younger age groups, where it can take a potentially deeper hold.”

Jacques added: “The nature of some of this material means that people may well find themselves the subject of one of our investigations if they engage with such horrific online content, regardless of their intentions.”

Counter-Terrorism Internet Referral Unit

The UK’s Counter-Terrorism Internet Referral Unit (CTIRU) works around the clock to tackle the proliferation of terrorist content and material online. Launched in 2010, the CTIRU works with Internet Service Providers and ‘tech’ companies to have extremist content removed. Since then, the CTIRU has launched thousands of investigations. Its structure has been replicated by numerous international law enforcement partners across the globe.

Many of the CTIRUs assessments begin with a public referral and can lead to successful convictions for terrorism-related offences.

Jacques continued: “We often remind the public to be vigilant when they are out and about in their communities, but it’s crucial that people stay alert in online spaces as well. As the time we spend on our devices increased, so must our vigilance. If you see footage, videos, images or posts that don’t feel right, then report them so that we can take action.”

Further, Jacques observed: “If you’re worried about someone you know, whether they’re a younger person in your family or anyone else being influenced in a concerning way, then I would urge you to seek support. There is always someone who can listen and help in stopping someone from taking a dangerous path.”

Online reporting

If you see something that doesn’t feel right, report it online via gov.uk/ACT.

Member of the public can also download the iREPORTit app on Apple iOS and Android such that they can quickly and easily report extremist content online. In an emergency, it’s always best to call 999.

Advice and support is also available online at actearly.uk