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(File image) Two Iranian nationals have been charged with a suspected terrorist plot (Image: Getty)
Two Iranian nationals have been charged with terrorism offenses following a Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP) investigation into an alleged plot to target the Jewish community in the Manchester area. Salam Ahmadyan, 36, from Liverpool and Rahman Salehi, 34, from Salford, were arrested in Manchester on Sunday, September 20.
According to the authorization of the Crown Prosecution Service, they were both charged on Friday, October 2, with conduct and preparation for terrorist acts, contrary to Section 5 of the Terrorism Act 2006. CTP said it is alleged that the two men were in contact with an overseas third-party that may be in Iran in relation to the alleged plot. Both men have been remanded in custody to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court tomorrow, October 3.
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The details of the charges allege that Salehi and Ahmadyan, on or before September 20, 2026, with the intent to commit acts of terrorism, or to assist another to commit such acts, engaged in conduct in preparation for giving effect to that intent.
This includes allegedly communicating with others using encrypted applications to obtain components to assemble a homemade explosive device; allegedly receiving a document entitled “Steps to make (a) Chlorine powder and car brake oil/liquid bomb”; allegedly receiving video footage with instructions on how to manufacture or assemble an improvised explosive device; allegedly obtaining fluids, components and equipment necessary to manufacture or assemble an improvised explosive device; allegedly used the Internet to identify and investigate potential targets for attack; allegedly obtaining pictures, plans and maps of potential targets for attack; and supposed reconnaissance of potential places to carry out attack.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans, Senior National Coordinator for Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP), said: “These are extremely serious allegations and allegations, and have arisen from a joint CTP investigation working closely with our partners in the security services. In relation to this matter, but as always, we would ask that people remain vigilant and contact police with any concerns.
“I am aware that the news of this alleged plot, which came during the High Holiday period, has caused great concern for the Jewish community, as well as the wider public. It also coincides with the anniversary of the devastating terrorist attack at the Heaton Park Synagogue last year and comes in a wider context of the increase in anti-Semitic incidents across the UK, so we will consider the likelihood of the Jewish Increase anxiety. Community.
“This week has also brought into sharp focus some of the wider threats projected to the UK from Iran. While this incident and the investigation into the RAF Fairford incident are not linked in any way, I want to reassure the public that CTP, working with our national security partners, will use the full range of our capabilities to protect the UK from hostile acts.
“I hope our actions in this case show that CTP is working proactively and that we will act quickly if we suspect there is a threat to the public to keep them safe.
“CTP has been supported by colleagues in the North West, Greater Manchester Police and Merseyside Police during this investigation and we continue to work with those colleagues as several investigations continue. CTP also works closely with police forces across the country to provide specialist safeguards, security advice and support to areas with Jewish communities to help keep them safe.
“Finally, I would like to thank the public – particularly those in the affected areas in Manchester and Liverpool – for their support while this investigation continues. As always, I urge the public to remain vigilant and if they have any concerns, do not hesitate to take action and contact the police.”
Greater Manchester Police Deputy Chief Constable Terry Woods said: “We know how concerning this news will be for Jewish communities in Greater Manchester, and beyond. We know this is particularly acute on the calendar anniversary of last year’s terrorism at the Heaton Park Synagogue, and during the Jewish High Holy Days.
“We continue to work hand in hand with local leaders, Community Security Trust, and our local police teams, and nationally with Counter Terrorism Police London, who led this investigation.
“Our ongoing and robust policing plans in Jewish communities will be maintained, and the public can expect to see continued visibility with officers providing commitment and security.”
