Three Arrested in Greater Manchester as Part of Terror Plot Investigation

Greater Manchester, UK - Three men have been arrested across Greater Manchester in connection to a suspected terrorist plot targeting a specific location. Armed police conducted raids on properties in Rochdale, Stockport, and Manchester on Saturday, May 3rd, resulting in the arrests of three individuals aged 40, 29, and one whose age is yet to be confirmed. All three remain in police custody.

The arrests are part of a wider counter-terrorism operation that also saw arrests made in Swindon and west London. The Metropolitan Police have confirmed that all five men have been arrested on suspicion of preparation of a terrorist act, contrary to section 5 of the Terrorism Act (TACT), 2006. It is understood that all the men arrested, with the exception of the individual apprehended in Manchester, are believed to be Iranian nationals.

The operation unfolded dramatically in Rochdale, where police descended on a property on East Street at approximately 7pm on Saturday. Residents reported hearing a loud "bang" and witnessing armed officers with "guns pointing at the window" before a man, reportedly shirtless, was escorted from the house. Forensic officers remained at the scene throughout the evening, meticulously searching for evidence.

The Metropolitan Police have confirmed that the investigation is focused on a suspected plot to target a specific, as yet undisclosed, premises.

Commander Dominic Murphy, Head of the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command, issued a statement assuring the public that the investigation is progressing rapidly. "This is a fast-moving investigation, and we are working closely with those at the affected site to keep them updated," he said. Authorities have not released further details regarding the intended target or the nature of the suspected plot, citing ongoing investigation sensitivities.

The investigation is ongoing.