Six individuals have been charged with membership in the banned Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) following a comprehensive investigation by counter-terrorism police, according to the Metropolitan Police.
Those charged include Turkan Ozcan, 59, Mazlum Sayak, 27, Berfin Kerban, 31, Ali Boyraz, 62, Ercan Akbal, 56, and Agit Karatas, 23. All six are set to appear at Westminster Magistrates Court on Tuesday.
Acting Commander Helen Flanagan from the Met’s Counter-Terrorism Command stated: “The charges in this case are very serious and are the result of an extensive investigation by our detectives. We fully understand the concern this has caused within the local community, and we continue to work closely with local policing teams to provide updates.”
She added: “It’s vital that communities across London are aware that if we suspect any form of terrorist activity, we will investigate and take necessary action to ensure everyone’s safety.”
A 31-year-old man arrested as part of the same investigation has been released without charge.
Background on the PKK
The PKK, a separatist organization seeking an independent Kurdish state in southeastern Turkey, has been banned in the UK since 2001. The group has been engaged in conflict with the Turkish government since the 1980s.
The investigation into the alleged PKK activities led to the arrest of seven individuals last month, sparking unrest in Haringey, North London. Local residents gathered in large numbers to protest and prevent further police raids in the area.
Kurdish Community Response
As part of the investigation, searches were conducted at multiple locations, including the Kurdish Community Centre in Haringey, which houses the Kurdish People’s Assembly in the UK—an advocacy group.
Kurdish organizations have criticized the arrests, describing them as an “affront to democracy, justice, and human rights.” The groups have called for the immediate release of those detained.
The arrests and subsequent charges have amplified tensions within London’s Kurdish community, with many questioning the approach taken by authorities.
