A man has been charged under the Terrorism Act following an incident at a hospital’s maternity wing in Leeds.

Mohammad Farooq, 27, of Roundhay, Leeds, was charged with engaging in the preparation of an act of terrorism and with explosives and firearms offences following the incident at St James’s Hospital in Leeds last Friday, Counter Terrorism Policing North East said.

Wards on the Gledhow wing of the hospital were evacuated because of a suspicious package.

Army specialists and a bomb disposal unit attended the scene.

Farooq has been remanded in custody and will appear before Westminster Magistrates’ Court via video link on Friday.

Detective Chief Superintendent James Dunkerley, head of Counter Terrorism Policing North East, said inquiries have confirmed it was “an isolated incident”.

“We are satisfied that there is currently no evidence of an increased risk to the public, within our communities or the UK hospital estate, in connection with this investigation,” he said.

“Despite this, the UK threat level remains at ‘substantial’, and history has shown us we can’t afford to be complacent.

“Public vigilance is invaluable in supporting the efforts of Counter Terrorism Policing and its partners to protect our communities from harm.

“We’re grateful for the support we’ve received from the public during this investigation. We’d particularly like to thank the staff and patients at St James’s Hospital for their patience and cooperation throughout the disruption last Friday.”

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