Authorities are urging the public not to speculate following the arrest of a 29-year-old Iranian man in Swindon, which forms part of a broader counter-terrorism investigation across the UK.
The operation led to the detention of eight Iranian nationals in total, with arrests taking place in Swindon, London, Rochdale, Stockport and Manchester.
The man was apprehended in Swindon town centre during a high-profile operation that involved officers in plain clothes and balaclavas. The arrest, captured on video by a bystander, has drawn significant public attention.
However, police stress that sharing unverified information online or in the community could hinder ongoing efforts and compromise the integrity of the investigation.
Wiltshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner confirmed that the operation was intelligence-led and intended to ensure public safety.
Local authorities have advised that there will be a heightened police presence in parts of Swindon, including continued searches at a property in the Manchester Road area.
The Metropolitan Police revealed that the suspects are believed to have been plotting to target a specific premises in the UK.
While details remain limited, the Home Office has confirmed that the arrests are part of a significant and coordinated national counter-terrorism effort. Forensic work and evidence gathering are now underway at multiple locations across the country.
Four of the men remain in custody with extended time granted for questioning. One individual has been released on bail.
On the same day, three other Iranian men were arrested in London under the National Security Act 2023. This legislation allows authorities to detain individuals suspected of being involved in foreign state-linked threat activity.
The Iranian government has expressed concern over the arrests and stated its willingness to cooperate with UK authorities if credible allegations are confirmed.
The public is being asked to remain calm, support law enforcement efforts, and avoid spreading rumours while the investigation continues.
