The short version
- Rahman Salehi and Salam Ahmadyan face charges for allegedly preparing terrorist acts involving homemade explosives in Manchester.
- The arrests occurred on the eve of Yom Kippur, with police alleging the suspects used encrypted apps to acquire components and conduct reconnaissance.
- Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood highlighted the incident as evidence of threats from foreign state actors and emphasized border security measures.
Two Iranian nationals have been formally charged with terrorism offenses in connection with an alleged plot to attack Manchester’s Jewish community. Rahman Salehi, 35, and Salam Ahmadyan, 36, are accused of preparing to commit acts of terrorism or assisting others in doing so on or before September 20. The charges stem from a counter-terrorism investigation that concluded the men intended to use an improvised explosive device against targets in the city.
The suspects were detained in the Northern Quarter district of Manchester on September 20, which coincided with the eve of Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. At the time of their arrest, thousands of worshippers were attending services across the region. Counter-terrorism police stated that the disruption prevented a potential attack during this sensitive period. The men are scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on October 3.
Prosecutors allege that Salehi and Ahmadyan utilized encrypted communication applications to source materials necessary for assembling a homemade bomb. According to court documents, the pair obtained video instructions detailing the construction of improvised explosive devices. They reportedly acquired specific liquids, components, and equipment required for the assembly process. Additionally, investigators claim the suspects conducted extensive internet research on potential targets, gathering images, plans, and maps while carrying out physical reconnaissance in the area.
The investigation involved coordinated searches at residential addresses in both Liverpool and Salford. Specifically, authorities examined properties on Epworth Street in Liverpool and Lancaster Road in Salford as part of their evidence-gathering efforts. Vicki Evans, the senior national coordinator for Counter Terrorism Policing, described the charges as extremely serious. She noted that the operation was a joint effort involving security services aimed at disrupting hostile acts projected into the United Kingdom.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood addressed the public regarding the developments, describing the news as deeply distressing for Jewish communities across the country. She emphasized that the timing of the alleged plot, coming shortly after Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, would be particularly painful for residents of Manchester. The city is still marking the one-year anniversary of a deadly terrorist attack at Heaton Park Synagogue, which resulted in two deaths and multiple injuries last year.
Mahmood also drew attention to the migration history of the suspects, noting that both men arrived in the UK by small boat several years ago. She framed this detail as a reminder of the ongoing challenges related to illegal migration and border security. While acknowledging that migration numbers have decreased, she stated that further work is necessary to maintain safety. The Home Secretary reiterated the government’s commitment to rooting out antisemitism and protecting vulnerable communities from both terrorist groups and foreign state actors.
Frank Ferguson, head of the Crown Prosecution Service’s special crime and counter-terrorism division, confirmed the decision to prosecute based on sufficient evidence gathered during a fast-paced investigation. He reminded the public that the defendants have the right to a fair trial and that proceedings are active. The CPS expressed understanding of the concern this case may generate, particularly given the proximity to the High Holy Days, and assured the Jewish community that their safety remains a top priority for law enforcement.
Authorities have clarified that this investigation is not connected to other recent security incidents, such as those involving RAF Fairford. However, officials used the opportunity to highlight broader threats emanating from Iran. Counter-terrorism police continue to provide protective security support and advice to areas with significant Jewish populations. The case underscores the persistent vigilance required by UK security services to monitor and disrupt potential attacks targeting religious communities.
Sources behind this briefing
Go to the original reporting
- BBC News↗Men charged over alleged plot to target Manchester Jewish community
- The Guardian World↗Two Iranian men charged over alleged terror plot targeting Manchester’s Jewish community
