UPDATE: Bedfordshire man charged with various offences following Counter Terrorism Command investigation

A man from Bedfordshire has been charged with various offences following an investigation by the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command.

Harry Whittaker, 31 (07.07.92), of Caddington, Bedfordshire was charged on Monday, 20 May with:

• 4 x Possessing an explosive substance for unlawful purpose - Contrary to section 4 (1) Explosive Substances Act 1883
• 1 x Member of public possessing a regulated substance without licence Contrary to section 3 Poisons Act 1972

He has been remanded in custody and is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 21 May.

Commander Dominic Murphy, Head of the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command said: “I’m aware that the recent police presence at an address in Caddington has caused some concern amongst the local community.

“Working with colleagues in Bedfordshire Police and the Eastern Region Special Operations Unit (ERSOU), our priority at all times has been public safety - particularly in relation to other residents living nearby, and while our searches are now complete, we’re likely to remain at the address for a while longer to ensure the safe removal of all materials. As it has been throughout, this is being done with the support of specialist officers so that we are not putting anyone at any risk of harm.

“I’d like to thank the local community for their support and understanding as we continue to carry out this work. Finally, I ask that people avoid commenting or speculating any further about this case now that charges have been made, so that the criminal justice process can run its course.”

Background to the investigation:

An investigation was initially launched by Bedfordshire Police on Monday, 6 May when items, including a number of suspicious substances, were found at a residential address in Caddington.

A 31-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing explosions likely to endanger life and possession of Class A drugs. He was bailed while further enquiries were undertaken.

Due to the nature of items found, the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command was informed at that time, although the initial investigation remained with Bedfordshire Police.

On Monday, 13 May, and following continued searches at the address, the investigation was subsequently passed to the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command to lead.

The 31-year-old man was arrested on Tuesday, 14 May on suspicion of possession of articles for terrorist purposes, contrary to section 57 of the Terrorism Act (TACT) 2000. He was then detained under TACT powers and a Warrant of Further Detention was obtained on Thursday, 16 May at Westminster Magistrates’ Court, meaning that he could be detained in police custody up until Tuesday, 21 May. The man was subsequently charged on Monday 20 May as above.

Officers continue to work closely with colleagues from Bedfordshire Police and the Eastern Region Special Operations Unit (ERSOU) in relation to the safe removal of items and substances from the address.