21/08/2006

Eleven charged over 'bomb plot'

Eleven people have been charged in connection with an alleged plot to blow up planes travelling from the UK to the US.

Police said that eight people had been charged with conspiracy to murder and preparing acts of terrorism, while two other people were charged with failing to disclose information. A 17-year-old is understood to have been charged with possessing articles useful to a person preparing acts of terrorism.

A woman has been released without charge, while eleven other people remain in custody.

Commenting on the investigation, Metropolitan Police deputy commissioner Peter Clarke said that bomb-making equipment, including chemicals and electrical components, had been discovered.

He also confirmed that a number of video recordings, believed to be 'martyrdom' videos, had also been found.

Mr Clarke warned that the investigation could continue for several months. He said; "The threat from terrorism is real. It is here, it is deadly and it is enduring."

Thousands of passengers faced cancellations and delays at airports across the UK when the alleged plot was revealed on August 10.

It is believed that the plot involved plans to blow up US-bound passenger flights enroute, using liquid-based explosive devices concealed in hand luggage.

(KMcA)

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