Counter Terrorism Police are now leading the investigation into the death of a suspect after petrol bombs were thrown at the Border Force immigration centre in Dover.

The incident, which happened at around 11.20am on Sunday, saw devices thrown outside and into the premises by 66-year-old Andrew Leak from High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, who arrived at the scene alone in a car.

Police say they believe the attack was because of “some form of hate filled grievance”.

Mr Leak’s car was found near the scene. He was dead inside. Two staff members from the centre sustained minor injuries.

Counter Terrorism Policing South East said: “Detectives have been working hard to establish the exact circumstances, including the motivation surrounding this incident, and have been following a number of lines of enquiry.”

Detective Chief Superintendent Olly Wright, Head of CTPSE, added: “This was a traumatic incident for everyone involved, and the wider community, and we’re working hard to establish exactly what led to the events on Sunday morning.

“We understand that when Counter Terrorism Policing become involved, it can be worrying for some people, but I would like to reassure people that there is nothing to suggest any ongoing wider threat at this time.

“What appears clear is that this despicable offence was targeted and likely to be driven by some form of hate filled grievance, though this may not necessarily meet the threshold of terrorism.

“At this point, the incident itself has not been declared a terrorist incident, but this is being kept under review as the investigation progresses.”

Police believe he was working alone.