Londoners have been urged to remain vigilant after a 17-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of terrorism offences. 

The teen was arrested at a home in north London on Thursday (November 16).

He is suspected of encouraging terrorism, disseminating terrorist documents, arranging the availability of money or other property for terrorism and possessing a document likely to be useful for a person committing an act of terrorism.

The investigation relates to Islamist terrorism, but the Metropolitan Police said it is not linked to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. 

Following the arrest, the Met raised concerns about the number of young people they suspect of being involved in terrorism. 

Commander Dominic Murphy, head of the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command, said: “This is another case where a teenager has been arrested on suspicion of what are serious terrorism offences, and we remain very concerned about the increasing numbers of young people we’re seeing feature in our investigations. 

“We have officers working around the clock to counter the threat from terrorism, but the public can also play a big part as well. 

“I would urge all Londoners – particularly as we now enter the festive season – to be vigilant when they are out and about in the capital over the coming days and weeks. 

“Please report anything that doesn’t look or feel right to us. Your call won’t ruin any lives, but it could help to save them.” 

If you see something that doesn’t feel right you can report online or call police to talk through your concerns in confidence on 0800 789 321. In an emergency, always call 999. 

The teen was released on bail pending further enquiries until February.