Four men arrested during a sweeping counter-terror operation across England can be held for further questioning until Saturday, 17 May, after magistrates granted warrants of further detention.
The men — aged 29 to 46 — are Iranian nationals and were arrested on Saturday, 3 May, under Section 5 of the Terrorism Act 2006, which covers the preparation of terrorist acts.
? Where the arrests happened:
- [A] 29-year-old man – Swindon
- [B] 46-year-old man – West London
- [C] 29-year-old man – Stockport
- [D] 40-year-old man – Rochdale
- [E] 24-year-old man – Manchester (detained under PACE, now bailed)
Ongoing Investigation
The fifth suspect [E], also an Iranian national, was held under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act (PACE) and has since been released on bail with strict conditions, pending further enquiries.
As part of the investigation, specialist officers have conducted extensive searches at multiple properties across Greater Manchester, London, and Swindon.
“This is a significant and highly complex investigation,” said Commander Dominic Murphy, Head of the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command.
“We urge the public not to speculate or spread unverified information. We’re working at pace to keep the public safe.”
Public Urged to Stay Vigilant
Authorities have stressed that public safety remains top priority and that intelligence gathering and forensic searches are ongoing.
Commander Murphy added:
“We appreciate the support of police forces across the country. The public plays a vital role in preventing terrorism — if you see something suspicious, say something.”
National Security on Alert
The arrests form part of a nationally pre-planned operation led by the Metropolitan Police’s Counter Terrorism Command, under the umbrella of Counter Terrorism Policing UK.
So far, no further details have been released regarding specific plots, targets, or ideological motives — but sources say the case involves serious national security concerns.
