Terrorism raids: The arrests

Thursday, 9 April 2009 12:00 AM

By politics.co.uk staff

Bob Quick's error in allowing a secret document to be photographed outside Downing Street meant the counter-terrorism operation it documented had to be instigated a few hours earlier than planned.

Police are cautiously releasing only limited information due to the early stage of the operation, but it appears to have been a success.

Twelve men were arrested by the North West Counter-Terrorism Unit, working with Merseyside police, Greater Manchester police (GMP) and Lancashire Constabulary.

Eight premises were also searched.

The ages of the arrested men are not wholly clear, but range between a teenager who is in his mid to late teens to a 41-year-old man.

The arrests took place as follows:

Two at the address on Galsworthy Avenue, three at Cedar Grove, one near Liverpool John Moores University, one on Earle Road, two at a premises on Clitheroe, one on the M602 and two at a premises on Cheetham Hill Road.

Detective Chief Superintendent Tony Porter, head of the North West CTU said: "Today's action is part of a continuing investigation and we have acted on intelligence received.

"We understand that this kind of police activity can cause concern to people living in nearby communities, and we have ensured they will be able to discuss issues or concerns linked to today's operation with local officers who are providing a high-profile presence.

"We are also distributing letters around the areas concerned and will be meeting with community groups to address any concerns they may have."

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