Britain's crazy anti-terror laws lend themselves to being brought into action by any kook, something that's been borne out again recently after a jazz musician in Wales was subject to an armed terror-squad raid after a tipster told them they thought he was a terrorist (he has brown skin, a soundproofed recording studio, and drinks "ethnic" West Indian beverages).
Victor Frederick, 63, was arrested and strip-searched just yards from his home, just moments after his partner Andrea Heath and their daughter had infra-red sights trained at them and were told they would be shot if they moved.
No charges were ever brought against Mr Frederick…
But Mr Frederick, who has lived in Cardiff for 35 years and is originally from St Kitts in the West Indies, told how:
police confiscated apparently suspicious items, which included a video of boxer Muhammad Ali and a ceramic urn containing a traditional West Indian drink;
police interpreted soundproofing equipment and wiring from his musical studio as a potential sign of illicit activity;
he was followed by a police helicopter flying just above him more than two weeks after last month’s raid on his house in Holmesdale Road, Grangetown.
Terrified musician targeted in armed anti-terror raid
(Thanks, Carl!)
