SWINDON — A 31-year-old man from Swindon remains in police custody today after being arrested by counter-terrorism officers in a major operation on Friday.
Joshua Cammidge was apprehended in the Wiltshire town as part of a pre-planned operation led by Counter Terrorism Policing South East (CTPSE), with support from local officers from Wiltshire Police. Authorities confirmed that the arrest was executed under the Terrorism Act, though they have stopped short of detailing the specific nature of the allegations at this stage.
Armed officers were reportedly seen in the area throughout the day on Friday as a police cordon was established around a residential property. Forensic teams in protective gear were observed conducting a search of the premises, which continued late into the evening. Residents of the quiet street described a heavy presence of tactical units and unmarked vehicles arriving suddenly to secure the scene.
A spokesperson for CTPSE issued a brief statement confirming the detention, emphasizing that the operation was intelligence-led. “We can confirm that a 31-year-old man from Swindon was arrested on Friday, November 22, by officers from Counter Terrorism Policing South East on suspicion of terrorism offences,” the spokesperson said. “The individual remains in police custody at this time while inquiries continue.”
The arrest has sent shockwaves through the local community, with many residents expressing concern over the sudden influx of specialist police units. Local neighborhood watch groups have been urged by Wiltshire Police to remain calm while the investigation proceeds, though officials have stressed that there is no wider threat to the general public at this time.
“We understand that seeing counter-terrorism officers in the area can be alarming for local residents,” said a spokesperson for Wiltshire Police. “We are working closely with our colleagues in the counter-terrorism unit to ensure that disruption to the local community is kept to a minimum. We would like to thank the public for their patience and cooperation while this important work is carried out.”
Under current legislation, police have the power to detain a suspect in connection with terrorism offences for an initial period of up to 14 days without charge, pending authorization from a senior judge. Sources indicate that investigators are currently analyzing electronic devices and other materials seized from the property during the search.
As the investigation enters its second day, police have declined to provide further details regarding the suspect’s background or the specific motivation behind the arrest. No further information has been released regarding whether other individuals are being sought in connection with the inquiry. Authorities have urged the public to avoid speculation on social media as the legal process unfolds.
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