Three men have been arrested on suspicion of terrorism offences.

The men have been taken into custody in northern England on suspicion of “commission, preparation and instigation of acts of terrorism”.

Greater Manchester Police said that at about 7.30pm, four warrants were executed in the Bolton, Great Lever, Abram and Hindley areas.

The men, aged 35, 36 and 51, were arrested at separate locations and have been taken into custody for questioning.

Scenes remain in place at the four addresses as inquiries are carried out, the force said, while warning the local community they may see an increased police presence in the coming days.

Assistant Chief Constable Rob Potts, who holds responsibility for counter terrorism policing in the north west, said: “This evening we have executed a number of planned warrants as part of an ongoing counter terrorism investigation.

“Three men have been taken into custody for questioning and scenes remain in place as we conduct further enquiries.

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“Today’s activity has been the culmination of much detailed planning and we have put measures in place to minimise disruption to local residents as much as possible.”

He added: “I want to reassure members of the public that we do not currently believe there to be any wider threat linked to today’s activity.”

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