A London counter-terrorism investigation has led to the arrest of a fourth Iranian man. The Metropolitan Police announced that the 31-year-old individual was taken into custody in north-west London on Friday morning under the National Security Act. This recent arrest comes after three other men, also from Iran and aged 39, 44, and 55, were detained in London on May 3 as part of the same investigation. Authorities have secured warrants to keep the three previously arrested men in custody until May 17.
In a separate development, police are continuing to question four other Iranian men in connection with an alleged plot to target the Israeli embassy in London. A fifth man has been released on bail in relation to this investigation. On Friday, searches were conducted at two addresses in north-west London. All individuals involved in these incidents have been apprehended under section 27 of the National Security Act 2023, granting police the power to detain suspects believed to be involved in “foreign power threat activity.”
According to Home Office minister Dan Jarvis, these investigations represent some of the most significant counter-state threats and counter-terrorism actions in recent memory. Jarvis highlighted that these arrests mark the first time Iranian nationals have been detained under the National Security Act. The UK has taken steps to protect itself from malign foreign influence, with Iran being the first country to be designated at the highest level of the foreign influence registration scheme (Firs). This scheme, set to take effect in July, requires individuals directed by a foreign government to declare their activities in the UK or face up to five years in prison.
The developments in these investigations underscore the ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and foreign interference in the UK. The arrests of Iranian nationals in connection with potential threats highlight the importance of vigilance and strong security measures in safeguarding national security. As authorities continue their inquiries, the public remains alert to potential risks and supports the government’s actions to maintain safety and stability within the country
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