A 29-year-old man from Swindon is among five individuals arrested on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act, as confirmed by the Metropolitan Police.
The arrests, made on Saturday by counter-terrorism officers, involve five men — four of whom are Iranian nationals — now being held in police custody under suspicion of offences under section 5 of the Terrorism Act 2006. The fifth man, whose nationality has not yet been verified, was detained under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act (PACE).
The investigation relates to a suspected plot targeting a specific premises. Officers have reached out to those at the affected site to provide appropriate guidance and support. However, the precise nature of the location or threat remains undisclosed due to operational sensitivities.
Searches are actively being carried out at multiple properties across Greater Manchester, London, and Swindon in connection with the developing inquiry.
Those arrested are:
- A 29-year-old man in the Swindon area
- A 46-year-old man in west London
- A 29-year-old man in the Stockport area
- A 40-year-old man in the Rochdale area
- A man of unconfirmed age in the Manchester area
Commander Dominic Murphy, Head of the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command, said:
“This is a fast-moving investigation and we are working closely with those at the affected site to keep them updated. The investigation is still in its early stages, and we are exploring various lines of enquiry to determine any potential motivation and whether there may be further risk to the public.
“We understand the public may be concerned and, as always, I would urge vigilance. If anyone sees or hears anything that doesn’t look or feel right, they should contact us without hesitation.”
Support for the investigation is being provided by officers from Greater Manchester Police, Wiltshire Police, and counter-terror teams from across the country.
Anyone with concerns or relevant information is encouraged to report it in confidence by calling 0800 789 321 or visiting www.gov.uk/ACT.
