Suspect who killed three girls in England in July faces ‘terrorism’ charges: police – World

LONDON: The suspect in a stabbing attack that killed three teenage girls in England in July and sparked anti-immigration riots has been charged with producing lethal poison and “terrorism”, British police said on Tuesday.

Police said the new charges against 18-year-old Axel Rudakubana followed a search of his home, where an Al Qaeda training manual was found.

He had already been charged with murder and attempted murder for the stabbing that sparked anti-immigration riots across the country.

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Police said in a statement that the new charges included “producing a biological toxin called ricin” and “possession of information that could be useful to a person committing or preparing a terrorist act.”

Rudakubana will appear in court via video link on Wednesday.

Three girls, aged six, seven and nine, were killed at a Taylor Swift-themed summer dance class in Southport in July.

The stabbings sparked unrest and riots in more than a dozen British towns and cities during the week, with authorities blaming misinformation about the identity of the alleged attacker.

Police stressed on Tuesday that the stabbing had not been declared an act of terrorism and warned against speculation.

The statement said, “At this time, the Counter-Terrorism Police has not declared the attack that took place on Monday, July 29, as a terrorist incident.”

Police Chief Serena Kennedy was quoted as saying in her statement: “I am aware that new accusations may lead to speculation.”

“We would strongly advise caution against anyone speculating about motivation in this case.

“My request is for you to be patient, do not get caught up in rumors and speculation, and do not believe everything you read on social media.”