Two Iranian men have been charged in relation to an alleged terror plot targeting Manchester's Jewish community, according to counter-terrorism police. The charges come after a joint investigation by Counter-Terrorism Policing (CTP) and security services, highlighting ongoing concerns about threats projected into the UK from Iran.
Details of the Charges
Rahman Salehi, 35, and Salam Ahmadyan, 36, have been charged with preparing to commit an act of terrorism or assisting another to commit an act of terrorism. Both men were arrested on 20 September in Newton Street, in the Northern Quarter area of Manchester city centre, on the eve of Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. They were subsequently held in custody at a London police station.
Investigation and Disruption
Vicki Evans, the senior national coordinator for counter-terrorism police, described the charges as "extremely serious" and stated that the investigation had led to the disruption of what is believed to have been a plot targeting the Jewish community in Manchester. She emphasized that the investigation was a joint effort with security services and other partners.
Evans also noted that the case brought into sharp focus the wider threats being projected into the UK from Iran. While this incident is not connected to the RAF Fairford incident, she reassured the public that CTP and national security partners are using the full range of capabilities to protect the UK from hostile acts.
Key Takeaways
- Two Iranian men have been charged over an alleged terror plot targeting Manchester's Jewish community.
- The arrests took place on 20 September, the eve of Yom Kippur.
- Counter-terrorism police have described the charges as extremely serious.
- The investigation disrupted a plot targeting the Jewish community in Manchester.
- The incident highlights wider threats from Iran to the UK.
Comparison of Recent UK Terror-Related Incidents
| Incident | Location | Date | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alleged plot targeting Jewish community | Manchester | 20 September 2024 | Two charged |
| RAF Fairford incident | Gloucestershire | 2024 | Under investigation |
FAQ
What are the charges against the two Iranian men?
What are the charges against the two Iranian men?
Rahman Salehi and Salam Ahmadyan have been charged with preparing to commit an act of terrorism or assisting another to commit an act of terrorism.
When and where were the men arrested?
When and where were the men arrested?
They were arrested on 20 September in Newton Street, Northern Quarter, Manchester city centre.
What did the counter-terrorism police say about the investigation?
What did the counter-terrorism police say about the investigation?
Vicki Evans, senior national coordinator for counter-terrorism police, said the charges are extremely serious and that the investigation disrupted a plot targeting the Jewish community in Manchester. She also highlighted wider threats from Iran.
The charges underscore the ongoing vigilance required to protect communities from terrorism and the importance of international cooperation in counter-terrorism efforts.