A man from Worcester has been charged with multiple terrorism offences, which police allege are connected to the incitement of racial hatred.
Charges and Investigation Details
Wayne Munden, aged 55, was arrested by officers investigating the publication and distribution of material over a sixteen-month period. The alleged activity took place between January 2023 and May 2024.
He has now been formally charged with a total of eight offences. These comprise five charges under the Public Order Act 1986, specifically relating to stirring up racial hatred. The remaining three charges are brought under the Terrorism Act 2006.
Court Appearance Scheduled
Munden is scheduled to make his first court appearance at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Thursday, January 29. The case follows an investigation conducted by Counter Terrorism Policing West Midlands.
In a statement, West Mercia Police confirmed the charges and the forthcoming court date. They also urged the public to remain vigilant, stating: "If you’ve seen or heard something that doesn’t seem right, trust your instincts and report to police."
Context and Public Safety
This case highlights the ongoing work of counter-terrorism units in tackling offences linked to extremist material and hate speech. The charges demonstrate the serious legal consequences for activities perceived as aiming to stir up racial hatred, which are treated with the utmost severity under both public order and terrorism legislation.
The judicial process will now take its course, with all parties awaiting the initial hearing at the end of the month.
