Terror bomb plot ‘was driven by mastermind living in capital’

Terror suspects allegedly plotting bomb attacks over Christmas had an "al Qaeda inspired" ringleader living in the capital, it was claimed today.

Sources said the alleged plot — which is believed to have involved "spectacular" suicide attacks on banks, shops and landmarks in London — was being "driven" by the man.

The Evening Standard also understands that several of the men are believed to have received terrorist training in Pakistan.

The men were arrested in coordinated raids in London, Stoke-on-Trent, Birmingham and Cardiff on Monday.

Reports claimed that one of the suspects was a prominent member of an extremist group which mounted protests against returning British troops.

There were also claims that the three men arrested in Cardiff had been radicalised after being jailed for theft and drug offences and had emerged from prison with long beards and extremist beliefs.

Sources suggested that the plot involved a significant network of conspirators who had been planning to commit an atrocity for some time.

Counter-terrorism officers were today continuing to search the homes of the 12 suspects, who are mainly British nationals of Bangladeshi origin.

Forensic tests and analysis of the men's computers are being carried out, although reports suggest that no explosive materials have so far been found.

Met Assistant Commissioner John Yates, the country's most senior counter-terrorism officer, said the arrests had been "absolutely necessary in order to keep the public safe".

The Government's security minister, Baroness Neville-Jones, said the raids were "very important" and were prompted by concerns about "activities" that it would not have been "wise or safe" to allow to proceed.