A counter-terrorism investigation is underway in the UK after five Iranian nationals were arrested on suspicion of planning a terror attack. According to Met.co.uk
The arrests took place on Saturday, 3 May, as part of a national, pre-planned police operation.
The investigation is being led by the Metropolitan Police’s Counter Terrorism Command, also known as Counter Terrorism Policing.
The men were arrested in five different areas across England, including London, Greater Manchester and Swindon.
- A 29-year-old man was arrested in the Swindon area and taken into custody under the Terrorism Act.
- A 46-year-old man was arrested in west London under the same legislation.
- Another 29-year-old man was arrested in the Stockport area of Greater Manchester.
- A 40-year-old man was taken into custody in the Rochdale area.
- A fifth man, aged 24, was arrested in the Manchester area under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act.
All five men are Iranian nationals and were arrested on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act under the Terrorism Act 2006.
Police have obtained further detention warrants for the four men held under the terrorism law, allowing them to be held until Saturday, 10 May.
The fifth man, who was arrested under PACE, has been released on bail with strict conditions.
Investigators are also carrying out searches at multiple addresses in London, Greater Manchester and Swindon.
Commander Dominic Murphy, head of the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command, said this is a complex investigation.
He added that police believe a specific location was the intended target of the suspected terror plot.
However, for safety reasons, details about the suspected target are not being shared publicly.
Murphy urged the public not to speculate or spread unverified information while enquiries continue.
He also reassured the public that officers are working closely with local police to ensure safety.
The operation is being supported by Greater Manchester Police, Wiltshire Police and other national counter-terrorism teams.
Police have asked the public to remain alert and report any suspicious behaviour.
Anyone with concerns is encouraged to call the ACT terrorism hotline on 0800 789 321 or visit gov.uk/ACT. In an emergency, always call 999.
