Two men have been hit with serious charges under the National Security Act after a Counter Terrorism Policing London probe. The pair were arrested on Friday, 6 March, following an investigation into alleged spying on Jewish community sites and individuals in London.
The Accused: Who Are They?
- Nematollah Shahsavani, 40, dual Iranian/British national from North Finchley
- Alireza Farasati, 22, Iranian national from Edgware
Both men face charges of making contact likely to aid a foreign intelligence service between July and August 2025 — specifically linked to Iran.
Court Appearance Set
The pair are due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, 19 March.
Police Speak Out
“These are extremely serious charges under the National Security Act, which have come about following what has been a very complex investigation,” said Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans, Senior National Coordinator for Counter Terrorism Policing.
“Since the arrests two weeks ago, detectives have worked tirelessly to gather evidence and liaise with the Crown Prosecution Service. We understand the public, especially the Jewish community, may be alarmed, but we want to reassure them we will not hesitate to act if their safety is at risk.”
Evans urged the public to report any concerns either to local police or via national reporting tools at www.gov.uk/ACT.
Others Released
Two additional men arrested on 6 March have since been released without charge.
