Police prevent suspected terror attack on King's guards in ‘huge security scare'

Daily Mirror

13 hours ago

Following the man's arrest military personnel at a barracks near Windsor Castle in Windsor, Berkshire were reportedly warned not to leave the grounds in uniform
Police have reportedly prevented a suspected terror attack on soldiers protecting King Charles after arresting a man and discovering his alleged plan while he was in custody being questioned on seperate offences.
Following the man's arrest military personnel at a barracks near Windsor Castle in Windsor, Berkshire were reportedly warned not to leave the grounds in uniform. The alert remained in place for two days at Victoria Barracks, home to the 1st Battalion Coldstream Guards.
‌
A source told The Sun: 'The suspect is feared to have been plotting an attack. Police informed bosses at the barracks and measures were taken immediately despite him already being in custody. It was a huge security scare. But it was in the interests of everyone's safety.'
‌
According to the Sun Thames Valley Police first arrested the man in Slough, Berkshire, last week on suspicion of possessing an offensive weapon and arson at the nearby Salt Hill Activity Centre. However, while he was in custody on Sunday June, 1 police re-arrested him on suspicion of preparation of terrorist acts.
It is believed the investigation is now being led by Counter Terrorism Policing South East. The suspect is believed to be a 'lone actor' and no other arrests have been made. The alleged incident has understandably caused some concern among local residents so police have steppd up patrols to reassure the public.
Police have not yet named, or released any further details about, the 20-year-old man arrested on suspicion of the suspected terror attack.
Windsor Barracks, specifically Victoria Barracks and Combermere Barracks, have a rich history intertwined with military service and the royal family. Victoria Barracks was originally built for the Foot Guards and has seen various expansions and changes over time. Today, it's home to the Household Cavalry and is the starting point for the Changing the Guard procession at Windsor Castle. The barracks are located 0.25 miles (0.40 km) south of Windsor Castle.
Windsor Castle, the world 's largest and oldest occupied castle, is open on set days throughout the year. As a working royal palace, it is used frequently by The Sovereign for State ceremonies and official entertaining, and closures can occasionally occur at short notice.
‌
The presence of the monarch at Windsor Castle is signified by the Royal Standard flag flying majestically from the Round Tower. This is a tradition that continued from Victoria's time. Although Queen Victoria is long gone, this practice is a direct nod to her reign and the customs she helped establish.
Earlier this week an intruder sparked a royal security scare after they allegedly broke into the grounds of Windsor Castle. The man is said to have climbed over the wall to get in the castle grounds on Sunday before he was quickly detained by officers from the Metropolitan Police, which is responsible for security at the royal residence.
A man in his 30s was then handed over to the local police force, Thames Valley, before being arrested on suspicion of trespass and possession of a Class A drug.
The Ministry of Defence and Counter Terrorism Policing South East have both been approached for comment.