Sir David Amess murder ‘terror incident’ as police arrest Briton, 25, of Somali descent
METROPOLITAN POLICE have declared the murder of Sir David Amess to be a "terrorist incident", after the MP was stabbed on Friday.
Essex Police Chief gives statement following David Amess murder
Conservative MP Sir David Amess was stabbed to death while he attended a constituency surgery in Leigh-on Sea, Essex on Friday. Met police declared the fatal stabbing of Sir David as a “terrorist incident” last night.
In a statement, the force said: “The fatal stabbing in Leigh-on-Sea has tonight been declared as a terrorist incident, with the investigation being led by Counter Terrorism Policing.
“The investigation is being led by the Met's Counter Terrorism Command who are working closely with colleagues from the Eastern Region Specialist Operations Unit (ERSOU) and Essex Police.
“Senior National Coordinator for Counter Terrorism Policing, Deputy Assistant Commissioner Dean Haydon formally declared the incident as terrorism.
“The early investigation has revealed a potential motivation linked to Islamist extremism.”
A 25-year-old man arrested at the scene on suspicion of murder is in custody at an Essex police station.
Official sources said the man is believed to be a British national with Somali heritage.
The man is currently in custody at a police station in Essex.
The force added that officers are continuing to conduct searches at two addresses in London.
They said: “As part of the investigation, officers are currently carrying out searches at two addresses in the London area and these are ongoing.
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“It is believed that he acted alone, and we are not seeking anyone else in connection with the incident at this time. However, enquiries into the circumstances continue.”
The Metropolitan service is urging witnesses and anyone who may have information to contact the police.
Sir David had been an MP since 1983 and he had represented the constituency of Southend West since 1997.
In the wake of his death, Boris Johnson has lead a tribute to the man he called one of the “most popular people in politics”.
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Speaking from Downing Street, the Prime Minister said: “I think the reason people are so shocked and so saddened is above all he was one of the kindest, nicest, most popular people in politics.
“He also had an outstanding record of passing laws to help the most vulnerable.
“We've lost today a fine public servant and a much-loved friend and colleague, and our thoughts are very much today with his wife, his children, and his family.”