Man, woman arrested in London on suspicion of spying for Iran

British Counter-Terrorism Police announced that they had arrested two individuals who are believed to have assisted Iran’s Intelligence Service in London.

A 60-year-old male and a 42-year-old female were both arrested at different locations within North-West and North London respectively. The arrest of both took place under Section 3 of the National Security Act 2023; specifically, assisting a foreign intelligence service.

Both arrests were made nearly three months after British authorities conducted searches on properties located in North and North West London related to an investigation that led to today’s arrests. Another search was completed in North-West London immediately following yesterday’s arrests.

Both individuals were released from custody on bail until October 31st and will be required to adhere to strict conditions during their release.

Commander Helen Flanagan stated that there were no signs of an imminent threat to the general public. It is important to note that this investigation has no connection to several incidents involving members of Jewish and Iranian communities in London.

These arrests occur amidst increasing concern in the United Kingdom regarding allegations of espionage operations by Iran in the U.K. In May, four males were arrested based upon a separate investigation into allegations of spying for Iran.

The United Kingdom has increased utilization of the National Security Act to investigate foreign intelligence agencies conducting espionage or spying activities in the U.K.

In addition, in March, the Crown Prosecution Service formally charged two males with obtaining information and conducting reconnaissance on potential targets in the U.K. to assist an Iranian intelligence agency.