In a swift counter-terrorism operation spanning multiple cities, British authorities have foiled a suspected terror plot and arrested five men, including four Iranian nationals, on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act. The arrests, which took place across London, Swindon, and Greater Manchester, were announced by the Metropolitan Police on Sunday, May 4.
According to a statement released by London’s Metropolitan Police, the suspects, aged between 29 and 46, were apprehended during a coordinated effort by the Counter Terrorism Command. All five remain in custody under suspicion of terrorism offences in connection to an UK terror plot alleged plan to target a specific premises. Authorities have chosen not to disclose the location or nature of the intended target due to the ongoing nature of the investigation.
While four of the detained individuals have been confirmed as Iranian nationals, efforts are still underway to verify the nationality of the fifth suspect.
“This is a fast-moving investigation and we are working closely with those at the affected site to keep them updated,” said Commander Dominic Murphy, head of the Metropolitan Police Counter Terrorism Command. “We are exploring various lines of enquiry to establish the potential motive and identify whether there is any further risk to the public.”
Authorities have so far not confirmed whether the suspects had acquired materials or weapons needed to carry out an attack. However, sources close to the investigation say preliminary evidence indicates a premeditated plan that was likely at an advanced stage.
In a separate but related development, the police also arrested three other Iranian nationals in London on Saturday under the recently enacted National Security Act, which grants broader powers to law enforcement to combat foreign state threats, including espionage and foreign interference. The suspects — aged 39, 44, and 55 — are believed to be involved in activities that may threaten the UK’s national security, though it is unclear if the two cases are linked.
UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper commended the swift actions of law enforcement agencies and reassured the public of the government’s continued vigilance.
“These are serious events that demonstrate the ongoing requirement to adapt our response to national security threats,” Cooper said in a statement to the Press Association. “The government continues to work with police and intelligence agencies to support all necessary action and security assessments to keep the country safe.”
Security experts have raised concerns over the increasing trend of transnational plots and state-linked operations in the UK and across Europe. The latest arrests may reignite debate over the role of foreign influence, particularly from states such as Iran, in domestic terror threats.
The National Security Act, which came into force in 2023, has been hailed as a landmark legal framework that empowers British intelligence and law enforcement agencies with enhanced capabilities to prevent and disrupt threats before they materialize.
As of the time of reporting, no charges have been filed, and the names of the suspects have not been released. Investigations are ongoing, and authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant while assuring that there is no immediate threat.
Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to contact the police or national security hotlines.