Police studying possible links between Breivik and extremists in Britain

Published on Monday 25 July 2011 19:06

BRITISH police are investigating possible links between alleged mass murderer Anders Breivik and extremists in the UK.

Breivik has claimed he is working with two cells and, in his manifesto, revealed he was recruited by two English extremists.

He talks about attending meetings in the UK and suggests potential Scottish targets.

In A European Declaration of Independence he wrote of his English mentor as "the one who first described the 'perfect knight', let's call him Richard".

Scotland Yard does not believe that Breivik has visited the UK in the last year. However, they are investigating visits dating back further, who he met, and their movements since. There is no suggestion in the manifesto that Breivik has visited Scotland, or has any links to Scottish terrorist cells, but police still intend to investigate the possibility.

Scottish police say the atrocity, which cost 76 lives, is a reminder of the threat and consequences of terrorism.

Assistant Chief Constable Colin McCashey, counter terrorism co-ordinator for the Association of Chief Police Officers in Scotland, said: "The tragic events in Norway remind us of the danger that extremists pose to our safety and security.

"Every day the security services and police throughout the UK are working hard to protect communities from terrorists and violent extremists.

"While we do everything we can to prevent this type of attack, there is still a risk and we need people in our communities to remain vigilant and report anything suspicious.

"The attack in Norway also highlights the importance of securing materials such as ammonium nitrate and ammonium nitrate-based fertilisers which can be used to make explosive devices."

He added: "If there is any indication that the person responsible for the Norwegian attacks is connected to Scotland we will investigate that possibility. I have seen recent press reporting which indicates a possible connection to extreme right-wing activists in the UK and elsewhere and possible targets in the UK. If there was such a network I would be extremely concerned and we will continue to do everything we can to keep the people of Scotland safe."

The Anti-Terrorist Hotline is 0800 789321