Police working on potential threats projected from Iran

Counter Terrorism Policing officers, local officers and specialists from the Metropolitan police are continuing to work in response to potential threats projected from Iran against UK-based individuals.

Police and MI5 have foiled 15 plots to kidnap or kill British or UK-based individuals perceived as enemies of the regime since the start of 2022.

Those affected by the plots have been given advice and support, as well as protective security measures. Late last year, protective security measures were installed around the west London offices of a Persian-language media company.

Head of Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP), Assistant Commissioner Matt Jukes said: "Since that time, we have continued to investigate this particular threat alongside others and security operations have continued. In light of the ongoing investigation that follows the arrest of a man last weekend in that area, and despite extraordinary security measures, we still have serious concerns for the safety of people working at this company. This has led to us giving further advice and the company is now relocating. We would like to thank the company for their ongoing understanding with this as we continue to support them.

"While the threat is very specific, we know that other people and organisations that work in that area may be concerned at this news. I want to reassure the local community in that area that protective security measures will remain in place for the time being, despite the fact that the media company will be relocating."

Jukes also added: "Our overall workload in investigating threats from foreign states has quadrupled over the past two years. Any attempt to intimidate, harass or to harm British citizens or those who have come to live in the UK is completely unacceptable.

“We will continue to work closely with our intelligence partners and others to investigate the threats, support those affected and put in place measures to keep them safe. In this instance, we have had to advise action to keep those affected safe. Whilst that has affected their operations, we are determined to work with government and partners to ensure the UK is a safe environment for the media and for this company. That includes bearing down on hostile actors.

“This news may also be of concern to members of the wider Iranian diaspora in the UK. If anyone has concerns over their own safety or the safety of somebody else, then they should contact their local police force."

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