UK police investigate serious allegations in PKK-related probe
Supporters of the PKK terrorist group (PKK listed as a terrorist organization by Turkiye, the U.S. and the EU) clash with police in London’s Harringay neighborhood on Wednesday after the Metropolitan Police arrested six people in connection with suspected terrorist activity linked to the group in London, United Kingdom on November 27, 2024. (AA Photo)
The Metropolitan Police announced ongoing investigations into activities suspected to be linked to the PKK, a group designated as a terrorist organization in the United Kingdom. Seven individuals remain in custody as part of the operation, which has drawn significant attention.
Deputy Commander Helen Flanagan of the Counter Terrorism Command stated that authorities are probing “very serious allegations.” Flanagan assured that the investigation is being conducted with operational independence and emphasized the commitment to handling the matter “swiftly and thoroughly.”
“We anticipate that some of our search activities will continue for several days. We recognize the disruption this may cause to local communities but assure them that we aim to return the affected locations as quickly as possible,” Flanagan added.
The operation began on the morning of November 27, with raids at various locations across London. Authorities confirmed the arrest of seven individuals, including two women, under suspicion of links to the PKK. The affected areas were sealed off, restricting pedestrian and vehicular access, while police presence and patrols were increased.
Sources report that the investigation addresses issues such as terrorism financing, money laundering, and recruitment activities. These efforts follow intelligence shared by Turkish officials with their UK counterparts. The information exchange reportedly led to the raids and subsequent arrests.
The crackdown has sparked unrest among PKK supporters in London. Following the arrests, sympathizers gathered outside a community center in Haringey, leading to clashes with police after protestors attempted to form barricades. Four individuals were detained during the altercations.
A second demonstration the following day resulted in further confrontations, as protestors threw water bottles at officers. Police managed to disperse the crowd after brief scuffles.
Sources describe the raids as a significant step in disrupting PKK activities in the UK. Authorities reportedly targeted a PKK-affiliated organization, closing its offices for two weeks to conduct investigations. The move has allegedly created panic within the group’s networks in the country.
The operation underscores increased cooperation between Turkish and British authorities on counter-terrorism efforts, particularly against PKK activities. Officials indicate that further actions could follow as investigations progress.
