Four Britons arrested on suspicion of terrorism after being held in Turkey

Four British people have been arrested on suspicion of terrorism offences after attempting to cross into Syria via the Turkish border.

The four people, aged between 22 and 47, were arrested at Manchester Airport accused of the commission, preparation or instigation of terrorism after attempting to enter the war-torn country.

The group are part of the nine Britons, all from the same family, who were stopped by Turkish authorities on 1 April from entering Syria.

Waheed Ahmed, the son of Rochdale councillor Shakil Ahmed, was among the group. He was arrested at Birmingham Airport after being deported back to the UK on suspicion of terrorism on 14 April

A 31-year-old was also arrested over the same offence in the Rochdale area later that day.

All six remain in police custody for questioning.

The group of nine Britons held in turkey included four children aged one, three, eight and 11. The children have now been placed under protection of a legal guardian until further notice.

A Greater Manchester Police spokesperson said: "Officers are working to establish their reason for travel and apparent attempted entry into Syria.

"As part of investigation a number of houses in the Rochdale borough were searched.

"No evidence was uncovered to suggest any imminent threat to the communities of Rochdale or the UK.

"Officers continue to work closely with Rochdale Borough Council, local partners, and faith leaders as part of the 'Prevent' initiative."