Police given more time to question three men arrested on suspicion of spying for Iran
Police have issued warrants to arrest three more men arrested last week on suspicion of spying for Iran, allegedly targeting individuals and locations linked to the Jewish community.
It was stated that suspects captured under the National Security Law can now be detained until March 20.
The four men, aged 22, 40, 52 and 55, were first arrested in the early hours of March 6 at addresses in Harrow, Watford and Barnet.
London Counter Terrorism Police (CTP) detectives had previously received orders allowing them to be detained until March 13, before the latest extension was granted.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans, CTP’s senior national co-ordinator, said: “This investigation continues at pace with a number of inquiries being pursued by our detectives.
“Further detention orders for these three men will allow us to continue our investigation and, in doing so, reduce any potential risks to the public.
“This is a long-running investigation and is part of our ongoing work to disrupt malicious activity where we suspect it.
“We are fully aware that the public, particularly the Jewish community, may be concerned, but I also hope that the action we have taken will reassure them that we will not hesitate to take action if we think there may be a threat to their safety.
“As always, I would ask them to be vigilant and to contact us if they see or hear anything that concerns them.”
The Metropolitan Police said: “The investigation carried out by CTP London detectives relates to suspected surveillance of locations and individuals linked to the Jewish community in the London area.”
Police added: “Eleven searches were carried out in the London and Watford areas as part of the investigation.
“A number of items were seized, including various digital devices, which are being examined by specialist officers.”
The 55-year-old man was later released from police custody without charge.
A further six men, aged between 20 and 49, were arrested at the same location in Harrow on suspicion of assisting an offender; One person was also arrested on suspicion of assaulting a police officer.
All six people were released on bail until May and June pending further investigation.
