Police Detain Four Men in Counter-Terror Operation
British counter-terrorism officers have arrested four men in London on suspicion of assisting Iran’s intelligence service in a surveillance operation. Authorities believe the suspects were monitoring locations and individuals connected to the Jewish community in the capital.
According to officials, the arrests took place shortly after 1 a.m. during coordinated police raids at several properties in areas including Harrow, Barnet, and Watford. The suspects include one Iranian national and three men who hold both British and Iranian citizenship.
All four individuals were taken into custody as part of a national security investigation into potential foreign intelligence activity within the United Kingdom. Police said the operation followed months of intelligence work focused on suspected surveillance activities.
Investigation Focused on Surveillance of Jewish Community
Investigators say the suspects are believed to have gathered information about people and locations associated with Jewish organizations and communities in London. Counter-terrorism officers are examining whether the activity was intended to support a foreign intelligence service.
Commander Helen Flanagan, who leads Counter Terrorism Policing in London, said authorities understand that the case may raise concerns among the public, particularly within Jewish communities. She urged residents to remain alert and report any suspicious activity to police.
Searches are continuing at several addresses linked to the suspects, and officers are reviewing electronic devices and other materials collected during the raids.
Additional Arrests Made During Police Operation
During the same operation, six other men were detained in the Harrow area on suspicion of helping an offender. Police confirmed that all suspects remain in custody while investigations continue.
The case is being handled under the UK’s National Security Act, which allows authorities to take action against individuals suspected of assisting foreign intelligence services. Officials say the arrests are part of broader efforts to counter foreign interference and protect national security.
Security agencies in the UK have previously warned about the potential threat of overseas intelligence operations targeting communities and political interests within the country.
