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Dewsbury teen is ISIS suicide bomber

Dewsbury teenager Talha Asmal is reported to be one of four suicide bombers who killed 11 people in Iraq. Images released by the terrorist organisation ISIS appear to show the seventeen year old, who set off for Syria in April, prior to the suicide bombing mission.

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Dewsbury teen in ISIS bombing - Police statement

"The police have been made aware of media reports with regard to the death of a British National in Iraq.

"The identity of the person who has reportedly died has not been confirmed at this time and we are unable to comment further.

"We are aware that large numbers of British nationals are travelling to the Middle East for a variety of reasons and we understand that some of those travelling have resided in West Yorkshire.

"We continue to support families who have loved ones that are believed to have travelled and the local communities who understandably may also have concerns.

"The Foreign Office advises against all travel to Syria and some areas of Iraq. Only essential travel should be considered to other parts of Iraq. Check before making any plans."

“As part of the Prevent initiative West Yorkshire Police is committed to working with communities and local authorities, to highlight the dangers associated with radicalisation and travel to regions such as Syria and Iraq.

" We are all working together to help identify vulnerable members of our society and intervene and engage them before it is too late.”

“If anyone has concerns that a friend or relative may be vulnerable to radicalisation, expressing extreme views or contemplating travelling to Syria or Iraq, it is vital that we work together to try and prevent that person from travelling.

"Those who travel to Syria and parts of Iraq are likely to witness extreme violence and could become victims of violence themselves. In addition some may be drawn into taking part and committing violent acts themselves. Their families left at home will be left devastated.

"No parent would want to see their child put in danger, exploited or put in a situation where they face death.

“We are extremely keen to continue in developing the work we do with partners in order to help families understand the nature of the threat from extremist material on the internet and other publications, whilst also heightening their awareness of the signs that indicate if someone is being exploited.

“I would encourage anyone with concerns around individuals being radicalised to have the confidence in coming forward and sharing their concerns with the local police, or local authority safeguarding units either by contacting 101 or attending their local Neighbourhood Policing Teams, they can intervene and provide you and your family with the appropriate support and advice. “

– Assistant Chief Con. Russ Foster. West Yorkshire Police

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