An Iranian man suspected of being involved in a terror plot has been arrested in Swindon town centre as part of a major counter-terrorism operation.
Officers from the Metropolitan Police Counter Terrorism Command swooped on the town on Saturday afternoon (3 May) after intelligence led to the foiling of a planned attack.
Five men were arrested across the country, including a 29-year-old man detained outside a Costa Coffee on Havlock Street, Swindon.
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Later, Manchester Road in Swindon was closed as armed police raided a property believed to be linked to the operation.
The other four suspects were arrested in London, Stockport, Rochdale, and Manchester.
All five men were arrested on suspicion of preparation of a terrorist act.
Four of the men, including the suspect from Swindon, are Iranian nationals and have been detained under TACT (Terrorism Act) legislation. They remain in custody for further questioning.
A Met Police spokesperson confirmed the arrests were linked to a suspected plot targeting a specific premises, though the exact location of the intended target has not been disclosed for operational reasons.
Authorities have been in direct contact with the affected site to provide advice and support.
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 establish any potential motivation as well as to identify whether there may be any further risk to the public linked to this matter.
We understand the public may be concerned and as always, I would ask them to remain vigilant and if they see or hear anything that concerns them, then to contact us.”
Commander Murphy also thanked police forces around the country for their ongoing support during the operation.
