ISIS-inspired terror plot foiled by armed police raid in Newcastle

A suspected Isis-inspired terror plot has been foiled following an armed police raid in Newcastle.

A 33-year-old man was arrested in the operation, which involved dozens of officers and saw part of the city’s West End cordoned off.

Houses surrounding the suspect’s home were evacuated as a precaution over fears it contained explosives.

Resident Valerie Lewis told the Newcastle Chronicle she was expecting a friend when she heard a knock on the door on Tuesday morning, adding: “I could see dark clothing and opened it up and there was a policeman with a machine gun telling me to get out.”

Heavily armed counter-terrorist specialist firearms officers (CTSFOs), who are trained to launch from helicopters and use explosives, were among the units deployed for the raid.

Police remain on the scene in Arthur’s Hill and are conducting searches as the investigation continues.

Officers were granted more time to question the arrested man by a judge on Wednesday, and will be able to hold him until 18 December.

He was arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism under section 41 of the Terrorism Act 2000.

Source: Independent