5 of them are connected to alleged plot to target 'a specific premises,' security officials say, without disclosing intended location
Eight men, including seven Iranian nationals, have been arrested in two separate counter-terrorism operations carried out by police across England, the Metropolitan Police said on Sunday.
Five of the arrests were made Saturday during coordinated raids linked to an alleged plot to target “a specific premises,” security officials said, without disclosing the intended location.
Authorities said the site was identified with assistance from counter-terror officers.
“These are serious events that demonstrate the ongoing requirement to adapt our response to national security threats,” said Home Secretary Yvette Cooper in a statement, acknowledging the arrests.
Four of the five men arrested Saturday are Iranian nationals, according to police. They are being held under Section 5 of the Terrorism Act, which pertains to the preparation of terrorist acts.
Three arrests took place in the Manchester area, one in west London, and another in Swindon, the force confirmed.
Commander Dominic Murphy, head of the Met's counter-terrorism command, said the investigation remains in its early stages and is progressing rapidly.
“This is a fast-moving investigation, and we are working closely with those at the affected site to keep them updated,” he said. “We are exploring various lines of inquiry to establish any potential motivation as well as to identify whether there may be any further risk to the public linked to this matter.”
“We understand the public may be concerned, and, as always, I would ask them to remain vigilant, and if they see or hear anything that concerns them, then to contact us,” he added.
“We are working closely with local officers in the areas where we have made arrests today, and I'd like to thank police colleagues around the country for their ongoing support.”
In a separate, unrelated counter-terrorism investigation, police arrested three more Iranian men in London on Saturday.
“The investigation is not connected to the arrest of five people yesterday as part of a separate Met counter-terrorism operation. Enquiries remain ongoing,” the force said.
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