BBC News reporter André Rhoden-Paul reported that authorities in the UK made five arrests on Saturday regarding an alleged terror plot. Home Office minister Dan Jarvis disclosed that the suspects, who are Iranian nationals, were apprehended for planning to target a specific location, though he refrained from specifying the exact site. Jarvis emphasized the seriousness of the arrests, labeling them as some of the most significant counter-state threats and counter-terrorism actions observed in recent times.
During a statement to the Commons, Jarvis detailed that extensive searches and evidence collection were underway at various locations across the country, involving hundreds of officers. The arrests occurred in different areas such as west London, Swindon, Rochdale, Stockport, and Manchester, with armed officers seen apprehending the suspects under military support. Four of the individuals are currently undergoing additional questioning, while the fifth has been released on bail. As investigations progress, Jarvis mentioned that the authorities have been in contact with the target site to provide security advice and support.
Moreover, on the same day as these arrests, three more Iranian men were detained as part of a separate counter-terrorism operation in London. Jarvis highlighted that the operations required meticulous planning due to the intensity of the circumstances. The director general of MI5 previously noted a surge in state-linked threats to the UK, particularly originating from Iran. Jarvis indicated that the recent events underscored the prevalent and complex challenge faced from state threats, emphasizing the need for proactive measures.
Jarvis also outlined measures to enhance monitoring of individuals associated with the Iranian regime in the UK, emphasizing the necessity for transparency and adherence to regulatory frameworks. The Conservative shadow Home Office minister urged the government to provide clarity on the investigations involving Iranian nationals and consider examining the assets of sanctioned individuals linked to the Iranian regime in the UK. The Liberal Democrat home affairs spokeswoman echoed the call for closer scrutiny of sanctioned individuals’ assets in the UK, underscoring the significance of addressing potential security risks effectively
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