BREAKING NEWS: Counter-terrorism raids in Waltham Forest (From East London and West Essex Guardian Series)

BREAKING NEWS: Counter-terrorism raids in Waltham Forest

10:20am Wednesday 28th February 2007 in News By Sarah Cosgrove

ANTI-TERROR raids took place in Waltham Forest yesterday (Tuesday) morning.Two residential addresses in Walthamstow were raided by Met Police counter terrorism officers.Following one of the 6am raids, police arrested a 27-year-old man on suspicion of the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism.

He was taken to a central London police station where he remains in custody.

The man was arrested in connection with the alleged plot to blow up transatlantic airliners. One of the houses raided is still being searched by officers.

Deputy borough commander Det Supt Paul Ricketts said: "We always work closely with partners in the local community to reassure residents and minimise impact that these types of operations have on the borough. We continue to do so."

Waltham Forest council leader Cllr Clyde Loakes said that the council was aware that the 27-year-old man had been arrested.

He said: "The Met Police are leading on this operation and as such it would be inappropriate for us to comment further.

"The council and its partners are working very closely with the police to reassure the community and manage the impact of this incident."