A 14-YEAR-OLD boy from Blackburn has been re-arrested in connection with a terror plot in Australia, Greater Manchester Police have said.

The youngster was previously arrested on April 2 after the police examined a number of electronic devices at an address in Blackburn.

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He was arrested on suspicion of preparing for an act of terrorism under Section 5 of the Terrorism Act 2006.

He was further arrested on Saturday on suspicion of being concerned in the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism and remains in police custody for questioning.

As part of this investigation officers from North West Counter Terrorism Unit uncovered communication between a teenager in Blackburn and a man in Australia.

Information was subsequently passed to Australian Authorities.

Detective Chief Superintendent Tony Mole, from the North West Counter Terrorism Unit, said: “We have uncovered communication between an individual in the North West and a man in Australia to what we believe is a credible terrorist threat.

“As soon as this information came to light we acted quickly with the relevant authorities here and abroad and this has resulted with officers from the NWCTU arresting a teenager.

"The nature of the communication is currently under full assessment and subject to investigation.

"We are continuing to work closely with the police in Australia and Lancashire and I want to reassure the public that we have not uncovered an imminent attack in the UK and there is no immediate threat towards the communities of Lancashire, the North West and the UK.

“It is important to remind communities and families to bring to our attention anyone they perceive may be vulnerable or in danger of escalating towards terrorism. We have the ability to engage and support individuals where necessary.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321.