UK Foils Suspected Terror Plot: Five Men Arrested in Nationwide Raids

In a swift and coordinated operation, British counter-terrorism police arrested five men, four of whom are Iranian nationals, suspected of plotting a terrorist attack. The arrests were carried out on Saturday across various parts of the UK, including Greater Manchester, London, and the southern town of Swindon. According to the Metropolitan Police, the men were allegedly involved in a plan to strike a specific, undisclosed location.

Commander Dominic Murphy, who leads the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command, emphasized that the case remains highly active and complex. He noted that authorities are maintaining communication with representatives of the potentially targeted site to ensure they remain informed. Although the exact target has not been revealed, the police have confirmed that the site was of particular interest in the ongoing investigation.

The suspects were apprehended during separate raids: a 29-year-old in Swindon, a 46-year-old in west London, a 29-year-old in Stockport, a 40-year-old in Rochdale, and another man—whose age and nationality are still being confirmed—in Manchester. While four of them have been detained under the UK’s Terrorism Act, the fifth individual is being held under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act.

Murphy stated that the investigation is still in its early stages, with multiple lines of inquiry being pursued. Authorities are working to determine the motives behind the suspected plot and to assess any further threats that might pose risks to public safety. At this stage, all five men remain in custody for further questioning and analysis of evidence.

The Metropolitan Police have urged the public to remain vigilant during this time. Commander Murphy acknowledged the anxiety such news may cause and encouraged anyone with relevant information or suspicions to come forward. While much about the case remains under wraps, law enforcement is treating the matter with the highest urgency to ensure national security.