Southport Killer’s Anti-Terror Case Closed Despite ‘Sufficient Risk’, Review Reveals
A review has found that the Cardiff-born Southport killer, Axel Rudakubana, had his anti-terror case closed prematurely, despite being deemed a “sufficient risk.” Rudakubana’s contact with the Government’s counter-terrorism programme Prevent came under scrutiny following his heinous act of murdering three children at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class last year.
Prior to the attack, three separate referrals were made to Prevent regarding Rudakubana’s concerning behaviour, alongside six calls to the police. Revelations showed the teenager’s troubling activities, such as attacking a pupil with a hockey stick, researching school shootings on school computers, and carrying a knife on a bus and into class.
Home Office minister Dan Jarvis addressed the House of Commons, stating that the review highlighted an oversight in focusing too much on the absence of a specific ideology rather than considering Rudakubana’s susceptibility, grievances, and complex needs. The review suggested that Rudakubana should have been managed through the channel multi-agency process instead of being closed to Prevent, enabling coordinated risk management and support.
Rudakubana was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 52 years for the murders he committed. The Home Office minister revealed that the perpetrator had been referred to Prevent three times between December 2019 and April 2021 by his schools. Concerns raised included carrying a knife, researching topics related to Libya and Gaddafi, and looking up information on the London bombings, the IRA, and the Israel-Palestine conflict.
The Prevent learning review concluded that there was sufficient risk to warrant managing Rudakubana through Prevent, criticizing the premature closure of his case and highlighting the need for continued monitoring while collecting further information. The government has accepted all 14 recommendations for enhancing the Prevent programme in light of this case, reiterating a commitment to prevent future tragedies.
An internal review of the Prevent thresholds has been initiated to ensure a comprehensive approach to various threats, from Islamist extremism to fascination with mass violence. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper announced a public inquiry to investigate any oversights in identifying Rudakubana’s intent for violence, underlining the importance of learning from past failures in preventing such atrocities.
Head of Counter Terrorism Policing Matt Jukes underscored the need for a system that recognises and acts upon all contact points where emerging risks are identified. The review highlighted limitations in the existing system’s capacity to address evolving threats, particularly in cases involving young individuals influenced by extreme online content amidst mental health and social challenges.
The tragic incident involving Rudakubana serves as a wake-up call for a more proactive and cohesive approach in addressing potential risks and vulnerabilities within society. The government’s commitment to improving preventive measures and enhancing responses to complex threats is crucial in safeguarding communities and preventing future tragedies.