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Arrested Iranian Nationals Suspected of Planning London Terror Attack to Remain in Custody
Four Iranian men, apprehended on suspicion of orchestrating a terrorist attack in London, will remain in custody for further interrogation for at least another week, law enforcement officials announced on Saturday. The suspects were initially detained as part of a broader operation targeting potential threats within the United Kingdom.
Details of the Arrests
Last week, five individuals were taken into custody in connection with the alleged plot. The arrests involved armed officers, and in at least one instance, specialist military personnel. Reports indicate that the Israeli Embassy in Kensington was the suspected target of the planned attack. The men arrested include:
- A 29-year-old from Swindon, Wiltshire
- A 46-year-old from west London
- A 29-year-old from Stockport, Greater Manchester
- A 40-year-old from Rochdale
- A 24-year-old from Manchester
All of the suspects are Iranian citizens. The Metropolitan Police stated that the arrests occurred on May 3 on suspicion of preparing an act of terrorism.
Extended Detention for Four Suspects
According to the authorities, four of the men, who were apprehended under the Terrorism Act, can be held until May 17. This extension was granted following the issuance of warrants for further detention on Saturday.
Fifth Suspect Released on Bail
The fifth suspect, who was initially detained under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act, has been released on conditional bail pending further investigation later in May.
Investigation Details and Public Safety
Various news organizations, including The Times, have reported that the Israeli Embassy in west London was the purported target of the alleged scheme. However, police have refrained from releasing additional specifics at this juncture.
Commander Dominic Murphy, who leads the Met’s counter-terrorism command, commented on the ongoing investigation: “Our personnel are diligently pursuing what is a substantial and exceedingly intricate inquiry.”
Police Statement
Murphy added, “We are working tirelessly, prioritizing public safety in our continuing efforts. I urge the public to refrain from speculation or dissemination of unverified information. We have compelling and critical reasons for withholding further details at this time. We will endeavor to share additional information with the public as soon as feasible.”
Murphy confirmed that the Met is collaborating closely with local constabularies as searches are executed at multiple locations in the Greater Manchester, London, and Swindon areas.
He reiterated, “As always, I implore the populace to maintain vigilance and contact us if they observe or hear anything that causes concern.”
Separate Counter-Terrorism Operation
In a separate counter-terrorism operation, also conducted by the Met, three Iranian men were apprehended in north London the previous week under the National Security Act 2023.
Another Iranian national, suspected of engaging in “foreign power threat activity,” was also arrested in north London on Friday as part of the same inquiry.