Two teenagers have been charged with “very serious” terrorism offences.
Rex William Henry Clark, 18, of Ilford, East Londonwas charged on Thursday with preparing terrorist acts, contrary to Article 5 of the Terrorism Act 2006
Sofija Vinogradova, 19, from Cheshunt, Hertfordshire was charged yesterday with preparing to commit a terrorist act and two counts of obtaining information which may assist a person to commit or prepare a terrorist act, contrary to section 58.
Both will remain in custody until they appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Friday, August 16.
A Met Police spokesman confirmed the investigation was not a response to the chaos that swept the country following the horrific events in Southport.
A Metropolitan Police spokesman insisted the arrests were unrelated to the “horrific events in Southport” (Stock photo)
Commander Dominic Murphy, head of the met's The Counter Terrorism Command said: 'These are extremely serious allegations but I would urge the public to refrain from further speculation about this matter at this time and allow the criminal process to proceed unhindered.
'While we are unable to provide detailed information about the investigation now that these charges have been filed, I would like to reassure the public that we do not believe there is any broader threat associated with this investigation at this time, although our investigation continues.
'I also want to make it clear that our investigation into this matter is not a result of the chaos in the country that arose following the terrible events in Southport.'
The Met Police confirmed they arrested the woman at an address in Cheshunt.
Detectives searched the address and the woman was taken to a London police station before being released on bail pending further enquiries.
On Saturday 10th August the 19 year old woman was arrested again at an address in Cheshunt. An 18 year old man was also arrested at the same address.
They were both taken to a London police station. Further searches took place at the Cheshunt address, and also at another address in Ilford.
Detectives subsequently obtained a warrant for further arrest, valid until Saturday, August 17, for both the man and the woman.
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