A Gloucestershire Police officer has been arrested by South West Counter Terrorism Police on suspicion of a terrorist offence, with searches now being carried out in connection with the investigation.

The 30-year-old was taken to a police custody facility outside Gloucestershire.

The officer was detained at a property on suspicion of providing support to Hamas under Section 12 of the Terrorism Act 2000.

Specialist officers are now carrying out searches, including a vehicle and address in Gloucestershire.

Gloucestershire Constabulary Assistant Chief Constable Arman Mathieson said: “The arrest of a serving officer on suspicion of such a serious crime will undoubtedly cause concern to our community, as will everyone who works for Gloucestershire Police.

“It is important to note that the suspected support relates to online activity and the searches that take place are mainly to locate digital devices for analysis. The arrest was made to enable a prompt and effective investigation and no conclusions should be drawn at this stage.”

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