Five men have been arrested in the UK on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act, after police uncovered what they believe was a plot aimed at a specific site.
Police said they have contacted the location believed to be the target to offer support and advice, but the exact identity of the site is being kept secret for operational reasons.
Four of those arrested are Iranian nationals, while the nationality of the fifth suspect is still being confirmed.
The arrests took place in London, Swindon, and Greater Manchester, according to a statement from London’s Metropolitan Police.
All five men are being held on suspicion of preparation of a terrorist act under Section 5 of the Terrorism Act 2006 and remain in custody.
UK Interior Minister Yvette Cooper issued a statement thanking the officers involved and highlighted the seriousness of the situation.
“These are serious events that demonstrate the ongoing need to adapt our response to national security threats,” she said.
Ms Cooper added that the government will keep working closely with police and intelligence agencies to support all necessary security measures to protect the public.
