Incident at Sikh Place of Worship
An assault at the Sri Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara in Gravesend led to the arrest of a 17-year-old boy in Kent.
Authorities responded to a disturbance within the premises on Thursday evening, with reports of two women being assaulted outside the location.
While the women sustained cuts and bruises, fortunately, no severe injuries were reported, and a bladed weapon was confiscated by officers.
Legal Actions Taken
The 17-year-old suspect, whose identity is protected due to being a minor, was apprehended at the scene and subsequently charged.
He faces charges including assault causing bodily harm, using unlawful violence, making threats to kill, wielding a bladed weapon, and possessing a bladed article in a public setting.
Additional charges of attempted severe physical harm were filed against the teenager during his court appearance at Maidstone Crown Court.
Further Legal Proceedings
Following his bail approval, the suspect was immediately placed under custody for a mental health evaluation. His next court appearance is scheduled for Thursday at Medway Youth Court.
Kent Police chief superintendent, Angie Chapman, emphasized that the incident is considered an isolated occurrence and is not linked to terrorism.
The investigation is being treated as religiously motivated, and local law enforcement will continue patrols in the area to provide community support and reassurance.
Chapman expressed gratitude to the local community for their ongoing cooperation throughout the investigation process.