LONDON  — British counter-terrorism authorities arrested eight men, including several Iranian nationals, during two separate investigations carried out on Saturday across multiple regions in England, the Metropolitan Police confirmed. Though the two operations are unrelated, both involved Iranian suspects and were conducted as part of broader efforts to address evolving national security threats.

In the first investigation, officers from the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command apprehended five men during a coordinated operation linked to what authorities described as a “suspected plot to target a specific premises.” While details of the alleged target remain undisclosed due to operational sensitivity, police said the site’s operators had been contacted and offered support and guidance. Of the five individuals arrested, four are confirmed to be Iranian nationals. The arrests occurred in various locations including Swindon, west London, Stockport, Rochdale, and Manchester, and searches are currently underway at multiple addresses in Greater Manchester, London, and Swindon in connection with the investigation.

Commander Dominic Murphy, head of the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command, emphasized that the case remains in its early stages, with officers pursuing several lines of inquiry to determine possible motivations and assess any additional threats to public safety. He acknowledged public concern and urged vigilance, encouraging anyone with relevant information to come forward. Murphy also thanked local police forces across the country for their ongoing assistance.

In a separate and unrelated counter-terrorism probe, three more Iranian nationals were detained in London under Section 27 of the National Security Act 2023. This statute allows police to arrest individuals suspected of participating in activities that pose threats from foreign powers. Authorities did not elaborate on the nature of the alleged foreign threat, but confirmed the suspects remain in custody as investigations continue.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper expressed strong support for law enforcement and intelligence agencies, stating that protecting the UK’s national security remains a top government priority. She commended the rapid response of the Metropolitan Police and security services, noting that the arrests highlight the continuing need to adapt and strengthen national defenses against sophisticated and emerging threats.

These developments underscore the heightened vigilance among UK counter-terror agencies amid growing concerns over foreign influence operations and domestic plots. Investigations into both cases are ongoing.