[Nephythys]

PETER CLARK, SCOTLAND YARD'S ANTI-TERRORISM CHIEF
I would like to give you some details about the counter terrorist operation, which took place overnight.

I shall focus purely on the criminal investigation. As always, I must preface my remarks with a request for restraint - and by that I mean restraint in the reporting of events so far as they relate to those who have been arrested.


We must all, please, be careful to say or do nothing that might prejudice the right of any individual to a fair trial.

The investigation has focused on intelligence, which suggested that a plot was in existence to blow up transatlantic passenger aircraft, in flight.

The intelligence suggested that this was to be achieved by means of concealed explosive devices smuggled onto the aircraft in hand baggage.


The intelligence suggested that the devices were to be constructed in the United Kingdom, and taken through British airports.

The number, destination and timing of the flights that might be attacked remain the subject of investigation. This has been, and continues to be, a fast-moving investigation.

Today marks the culmination of one phase of what is a major operation that has already lasted several months, and will undoubtedly last long into the future.

During the investigation an unprecedented level of surveillance has been undertaken and our objective is to gather intelligence and evidence in support of the investigation.

We have been looking at meetings, movements, travel, spending and the aspirations of a large group of people.

This has involved close co-operation, not only between agencies and police forces in the United Kingdom, but also internationally. As is so often the case in these investigations, the alleged plot has global dimensions.

The investigation reached a critical point last night when the decision was made to take urgent action in order to disrupt what we believe was being planned. As always in these cases, the safety of the public was our overriding concern.




Throughout the night a significant number of arrests were made.

All the arrests were made on suspicion of the commission, preparation or instigation of Acts of terrorism under the Terrorism Act 2000.

The people arrested remain in custody in London, where officers will pursue the investigation from the Metropolitan Police Anti-Terrorist branch.

Searches are also under way at a number of business and residential premises in London and elsewhere. We anticipate that these will take some time to complete.

You will realise that this is a very early stage in what will be a meticulous, painstaking criminal investigation.

We will now be embarking on the next stage of the investigation, an investigation that will take us wherever the evidence leads.

As and when I am able to do so, I will give out information on the progress of the investigation. But please be aware that we will only release specific information when we are sure it is correct.

I am sure you will understand that at this very early stage it is not appropriate for me to answer questions. I will give you further information only when I am able and it is appropriate to do so.

At this point I must focus on the criminal investigation and any subsequent legal process, and refrain from speculation.

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Yup- I am sure Scotland Yard has nothing better to do than trump up a false terror plot in order to launch a movie.

Please.......