UK terror suspects freed
2004-04-26 14:10
London - Three people arrested in anti-terrorist raids which provoked fears about security at Manchester United soccer games were released on Monday without charge.
In a brief statement, the Greater Manchester police said the three, including a woman, were let go after they appeared before a magistrate who authorised the ongoing detention of seven other suspects arrested in last week's raids.
"Under the Terrorism Act 2000, people have to be either charged or released completely as you cannot bail people under this legislation," the police statement said, adding: "Inquiries are still continuing."
The three released on Monday were among a total of seven arrested in the greater Manchester area.
No identities have been released, but police have previously said that all 10 were North African and Iraqi Kurdish in origin.
They were held under the Terrorism Act 2000, Britain's principal anti-terrorist legislation, on suspicion of the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism.
Last Monday's raids, involving more than 400 officers, triggered fears that terrorists might have been planning a suicide bomb attack at a football stadium, possibly at Manchester United's Old Trafford.
Security was beefed up for two Manchester United fixtures last week, but no incidents were reported.
- AFP