Man charged with murder of Sir David Amess MP

Ali Harbi Ali, 25 of North London, was charged today (October 21) with murder (contrary to common law), and preparation of terrorist acts (contrary to Section 5 of the Terrorism Act 2006).

The charges were authorised by the Crown Prosecution Service’s Special Crime and Counter Terrorism Division (SCCTD).

Ali remains in custody and will first appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court later today.

Matt Jukes, Assistant Commissioner for Specialist Operations, said: “I want to send my deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Sir David Amess, who died so tragically last Friday. Sir David’s dedication to his family, his constituents and his community, and his positive impact on the lives of so many has shone through.

“Today’s charge is a significant milestone in the case, but the work from my colleagues in the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command will continue apace. There has been considerable speculation in the media about the background, history and motivation of the man now charged.

“I understand the huge level of public interest in this case, but now a charge has been brought, it is vitally important that everyone exercises restraint when commenting on it publicly, to ensure future court proceedings are not prejudiced in any way.”