Iranians charged with Manchester terror plot

Manchester Terror Plot Charges

Two Iranian nationals, Salam Ahmadyan, 36, and Rahman Salehi, 34, have been charged with terrorism offences over an alleged plot to target the Jewish community in Manchester. The alleged plot was disrupted by Counter Terrorism Policing, with the men accused of preparing to commit an act of terrorism or assisting another to commit an act of terrorism on or before 20 September. According to BBC, the men were arrested in the Northern Quarter area of Manchester.

Investigation and Charges

The investigation, led by Counter Terrorism Policing, alleges that the two men were in contact with an overseas third-party who may be in Iran in relation to the plot. The charges include communicating with others using encrypted applications to acquire components for a homemade bomb, including a manual on how to make an explosive device out of chlorine and brake fluid. As stated by Met Police, the men are also accused of trying to acquire video material containing instructions on how to manufacture or assemble an improvised explosive device and conducting reconnaissance of potential locations for attack.

Detail	Information
Age of Salam Ahmadyan	36
Age of Rahman Salehi	34
Date of arrest	Sunday, 20 September
Location of arrest	Manchester
Date of charging	Friday, 2 October

Response from Authorities

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said, "These recent events are a stark reminder of the threats posed against this country from both terrorists and foreign state actors. Two suspects have been charged with planning a terrorist attack against Jewish communities in Manchester. This news will be deeply distressing for our Jewish communities, coming so soon after Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur." Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans, Senior National Coordinator for Counter Terrorism Policing, said, "These are extremely serious charges and allegations, and have come about from a joint CTP investigation, working closely with our partners in the security services."

Security Measures

Greater Manchester Police Deputy Chief Constable Terry Woods said, "We know this is particularly acute on the calendar anniversary of last year's terrorist atrocity at the Heaton Park synagogue, and during the Jewish High Holy Days. Our ongoing and robust policing plans within the Jewish communities will endure, and the public can expect to see continued visibility with officers providing engagement and security." The police have urged anyone with concerns to report them online via gov.uk/ACT or call the confidential Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the alleged plot?

The alleged plot is to target the Jewish community in Manchester, with the two Iranian nationals accused of preparing to commit an act of terrorism or assisting another to commit an act of terrorism on or before 20 September.

Who are the two Iranian nationals charged?

The two Iranian nationals charged are Salam Ahmadyan, 36, and Rahman Salehi, 34.

What is the next step in the legal process?

The two men are due to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Saturday.

According to Frank Ferguson, chief crown prosecutor for the CPS's Special Crime and Counter Terrorism Division, "prosecutors have decided there is sufficient evidence to bring this case to court" while reminding people that, with legal proceedings active, online commentary should be avoided. The next trigger in the timeline will be the appearance of the two men at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Saturday, where the details of the case will be further discussed.