Terrorism is defined as the use or threat of action whether in or outside of the UK, which is designed to influence the government or any international governmental organisation or to intimidate the public (or a section of the public) for the purpose of advancing a political, religious or ideological cause.
The action must involve serious violence against a person, serious damage to property, to endanger a person’s life, to create a serious risk to the health or safety of the public, or be designed to seriously interfere with or disrupt an electronic system.
A terrorist is defined as a person who has committed specific offences under the Terrorism Act 2000, or someone who is or has been concerned in the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism.
There are a number of potential terrorist offences, including:
- Preparation of terrorist acts
- Membership of a Pproscribed organisation
- Distributing a terrorist publication
- Funding / money laundering for the purposes of Terrorism
- Encouragement of Terrorism
- Possession of an article for Terrorist purposes
- Training for terrorism / attendance at a place used for Terrorist training
Terrorism offences are investigated by a specialist police unit and prosecuted by a specialist unit within The CPS. You therefore need specialist solicitors if you or a loved one has been arrested for a terrorism related offence. There are special police powers relating to those who have been detained under the Terrorism Act 2000, so you need to have a specialist who can properly advise you or your loved one.
Contact the experts
Rakesh Bhasin is an experienced Terrorism practitioner representing those who have been arrested and detained, and also representing to trial clients charged with Terrorism offences.
Please contact Rakesh Bhasin on 07968 848357. Rakesh is a contributor to the chapter on Terrorism in the LAG Police Station Adviser’s Handbook 2021.
