Counter Terror Police Take Over After Dover Immigration Centre Firebomb Attack
Counter Terrorism Policing South East (CTPSE) have swooped in to lead the probe after a terrifying firebomb attack at a Home Office immigration centre in Dover. The shocking incident happened at around 11.20am on Sunday, 30 October.
Suspect Dead at Scene After Throwing Incendiary Devices
A lone man in a car lobbed several crude incendiary devices both outside and inside the immigration centre. Police quickly located the suspect’s vehicle nearby, discovering the man dead inside. Two staff members suffered minor injuries during the attack.
The suspect has been named as Andrew Leak, 66, from High Wycombe.
Search Warrant Yields Digital Evidence in High Wycombe
Officers executed a search warrant at Leak’s Buckinghamshire home on Monday, 31 October. They recovered multiple digital media devices now under urgent examination. Experts with specialist skills are handling the case to uncover what motivated the attack.
Authorities currently believe Leak acted alone, with no links to others or wider threats to the public in Dover or High Wycombe.
Detective Chief Superintendent Speaks Out
“This was a traumatic incident for everyone involved, and the wider community,” said Detective Chief Superintendent Olly Wright, Head of CTPSE. “We’re working hard to discover exactly what led to the events on Sunday morning. While the involvement of Counter Terrorism Police may cause concern, I want to reassure people there’s no sign of an ongoing wider threat at this time.”
“It appears the attack was targeted and driven by a hate-fueled grievance. However, it has not yet been declared a terrorist incident, though this is under continuous review as the investigation continues.”
Police Appeal for Information
The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information or footage related to the incident is urged to contact the police via the Major Incident Public Portal. Images and videos can also be uploaded here.
