21/10/2008

Five Terror Suspects Arrested In Dawn Swoops

Police in Birmingham have arrested five terrorism suspects during early morning raids across the city.

The men, believed to be aged between 29 and 36, are being held under anti-terrorism law.

Police said the suspects are being detained for alleged involvement in the "commission, preparation or instigation of an act of terrorism."

According to a West Midlands Police spokesperson the swoop was part of a "long and complex investigation".

The police declined to make any further comment on the operation at this stage.

"It is not related to any immediate plot or threat to public safety and police are not currently seeking anyone else in relation to these arrests," the spokesman added.

Police reportedly swooped on five separate addresses in the city, as well as searching two business premises.

MI5 has determined the current terror level threat as 'severe' - the second highest rating.

The security service believes that a fresh attack is "highly likely".

(PR/JM)

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