Separate investigations target alleged terror plot and suspected foreign interference
In one of the most significant security developments in recent months, eight men, including seven Iranian nationals, have been arrested in two unconnected counter-terrorism investigations carried out across England by the Metropolitan Police. The coordinated operations underscore the scale and complexity of the evolving threats to UK national security.
Alleged Terror Plot Foiled Across Multiple Cities
Five of the arrests were made in Swindon, west London, Stockport, Rochdale, and Manchester on Saturday. According to the Metropolitan Police Counter Terrorism Command (CTC), these arrests were part of a pre-planned operation targeting an alleged plot to attack a specific location—the nature of which remains undisclosed for operational reasons.
Four of the men—two aged 29, one aged 40, and another aged 46—are Iranian nationals, while the fifth suspect’s identity is still being verified. Four of them were detained under the Terrorism Act, with the fifth arrested under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act (PACE). All five are being held on suspicion of preparing an act of terrorism.
Video footage has emerged of armed police detaining one suspect in Swindon, while military personnel reportedly assisted in the Rochdale operation, highlighting the seriousness of the potential threat.
Commander Dominic Murphy, head of the Met’s CTC, confirmed that the investigation is in its early stages: “We are exploring various lines of enquiry to establish any potential motivation, as well as to assess any further risk to the public.”
Police have been in contact with the unnamed “affected premises”, which is being supported as investigations continue.
Separate National Security Operation in London
In an entirely separate development, three more Iranian nationals—aged 39, 44, and 55—were arrested in northwest and west London under the National Security Act, which covers serious offences such as espionage, sabotage, and acting on behalf of a foreign power. These arrests were not related to the alleged terror plot, but are also being handled by the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command.
Authorities stressed that the two operations are not connected, though both highlight increasing concerns over foreign-linked threats and internal radicalisation.
Political Response: National Security in Sharp Focus
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper praised the security services for their swift action, stating: “These are major operations. The nature and number of arrests reflect the complex threats we face in safeguarding our national security.”
Cooper added that such efforts remain vital in a rapidly evolving security environment, and thanked law enforcement for their commitment to keeping the public safe.
Commander Murphy noted the “unusual” scale of the operations, which involve several hundred officers and support from police forces across the country, including Greater Manchester and Wiltshire Police.
Rising Pressure on Domestic Security
The dual investigations are a stark reminder of the multifaceted security challenges confronting the UK. From alleged domestic plots to potential state-linked subversion, the authorities are navigating an increasingly complex web of threats, often with international dimensions.
Experts suggest that the arrests may signal an elevated focus on foreign interference, especially amid geopolitical tensions involving Iran and other state actors. The involvement of the military, the use of national security legislation, and the broad geographic scope of the arrests all point to a highly coordinated, intelligence-led approach.
As the investigations continue, questions remain about the broader implications for UK-Iran relations, the resilience of counter-terrorism strategy, and how civil liberties are balanced against the need for national protection.
