A 14-year-old boy is accused of planning to carry out attacks on two mosques in south London next month, a court was told. The youth, who cannot be identified due to his age, allegedly drew inspiration from Adolf Hitler and other right-wing extremists, including Brenton Tarrant and Anders Breivik.
According to prosecutor Adam Harbinson, the boy created a manifesto outlining his intentions and referencing these figures. The alleged plot was to target two mosques in Sutton on August 28. The boy reportedly intended to carry out the attacks under the guise of converting to Islam.
The suspect was initially arrested on July 9 in connection with racially aggravated criminal damage to a vehicle. During the investigation into this incident, police discovered material in his bedroom that suggested extreme right-wing beliefs. Investigators seized the boy's mobile phone, laptop, and two notepads, which reportedly raised concerns about a potential terrorist attack.
The court heard that the car damage was potentially a precursor, termed 'Operation Terrorise Sutton,' involving tyre-slashing and targeted vehicle attacks. Prosecutor Harbinson stated that evidence suggested the youth's views were entrenched.
The boy appeared before Westminster Magistrates' Court, sitting as a youth court, where he pleaded not guilty to one count of planning a terrorist attack and one count of racially aggravated criminal damage. He confirmed his name, address, and date of birth, and entered his pleas during the 20-minute hearing.
Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring ordered the youth to be remanded into custody. His next appearance is scheduled for August 21 at the Old Bailey, a week before the alleged attack was planned to occur.
Commander Helen Flanagan of Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP) London acknowledged the seriousness of the charge and the concern it may cause the public, particularly the Muslim community. CTP London is working with the affected venues to provide support and reassurance.