Investigation continues after early closure of major event
Counter-terrorism officers have released seven men without charge as inquiries continue into a reported threat aimed at the UK Ijtima, a large Islamic gathering held at Shrubland Hall near Ipswich. The multi‑day event, attended by thousands, was brought to an early close on police advice last weekend.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that a total of 13 arrests were made across several days in connection with the alleged extreme right‑wing threat: 12 on Sunday and Monday, and a 13th on Thursday. While four people had earlier been released on bail, officers said on Saturday that seven men were now out of custody with no further action. One additional man remains on bail under strict conditions.
Police: no evidence at this stage to support charges over alleged threat
Commander Helen Flanagan, who leads Counter-Terrorism Policing London, said detectives moved quickly once intelligence indicated a potential risk to the Suffolk gathering. In her words:
"This has been a fast-moving investigation after we became aware of information to indicate there was a potential threat towards the Islamic event over the course of last weekend. Since then, we have made extensive inquiries, but at this time we have found no evidence to support anyone being charged with any offences linked to the alleged threat."
As part of the operation, officers searched homes and vehicles and seized more than 35 digital devices. The force underlined that inquiries are active and further assessment of the seized material is ongoing.
Separate weapons charges not linked to reported threat
During the searches, a 42‑year‑old man was charged with two counts of possessing offensive weapons — specified as extendable batons and a stun gun. Police stated these alleged offences are not believed to be connected to the threat against the UK Ijtima. The man has been remanded and is due to appear at Reading Magistrates’ Court on Monday (20 July).
Event impact and community context
The UK Ijtima is a long‑standing religious gathering that draws sizeable attendance from across the country. Its early closure at Shrubland Hall — a rural estate a short distance from Ipswich — meant worshippers and volunteers had to stand down plans at short notice. Police thanked organisers and the local community for their cooperation as officers worked to verify the reported threat and secure the site.
The current position means that, while arrests were made swiftly to mitigate any potential risk, investigators have so far not found evidence that would support charging anyone in relation to the threatened attack on the event. One suspect remains on bail under conditions while the review of seized materials continues.
What we know so far
- Event: UK Ijtima at Shrubland Hall near Ipswich, closed early on police advice.
- Arrests: 13 in total; seven released without charge; one on bail under conditions; earlier, four were bailed.
- Searches: Homes and vehicles examined; 35+ digital devices seized.
- Separate case: One 42‑year‑old charged with weapons offences, which police say are unrelated to the alleged threat.
Key figures at a glance
| Action | Number |
|---|---|
| Total arrests | 13 |
| Released without charge | 7 |
| On bail (current) | 1 |
| Devices seized | 35+ |
| Unrelated weapons charge | 1 individual |
Police have not released further details about the individuals concerned. The priority, senior officers said, remains to determine whether any criminality occurred in relation to the alleged threat while ensuring public safety at large gatherings in Suffolk and beyond.
Anyone with concerns about suspicious activity at events is encouraged to follow police advice and guidance when it is issued on the day. Organisers of large meetings and religious gatherings typically liaise with local forces in advance about safety arrangements; attendees should monitor official updates from event teams and law enforcement for the latest information, especially if an event timetable changes at short notice.
