Breaking: Iranian Duo Faces Terror Charges in Chilling Plot Against Manchester's Jewish Community!

Two Iranian men, Salam Ahmadyan, 36, of Liverpool, and Rahman Salehi, 34, of Salford, are set to appear in Westminster Magistrates' Court following their arrest on September 20 in Manchester's Northern Quarter. They were charged on Friday, October 2, with engaging in conduct in preparation for terrorist acts, contrary to Section 5 of the Terrorism Act 2006. The charges were brought on the eve of Yom Kippur, as announced by Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP).

Specialist counter-terror police from the Metropolitan Police led the arrests, which included swoops at a hostel on Lancaster Road in Salford and a flat in Liverpool. The defendants, both of whom arrived in the UK via small boat several years ago, face allegations of preparing to commit acts of terrorism or assisting others to do so on or before September 20, 2026. This includes communicating using encrypted applications to acquire components for a homemade explosive device, obtaining documents and video material on manufacturing improvised explosive devices, acquiring necessary liquids, components, and equipment, using the internet to identify potential targets, acquiring images, plans, and maps of these targets, and conducting reconnaissance.

It is further alleged that Ahmadyan and Salehi were in contact with an overseas third party, potentially in Iran, regarding the plot. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood confirmed that both men arrived in the UK by small boat in 2020 and 2023, with one having been granted asylum and the other having a live asylum claim. Ms. Mahmood highlighted the incident as a stark reminder of threats from terrorists and foreign state actors, particularly concerning the Jewish community. She expressed deep distress for Jewish communities, especially given the timing soon after Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, and the one-year anniversary of the Heaton Park Synagogue attack. The Home Secretary also underscored the importance of tackling illegal migration, stating the government's unrelenting efforts to protect Jewish communities, combat antisemitism, and maintain border security, while acknowledging the range of serious threats from the Iranian regime.

Frank Ferguson, Chief Crown Prosecutor for the CPS's Special Crime and Counter Terrorism Division, stated that the decision to prosecute followed a rapid Counter Terrorism Policing investigation targeting the Jewish community in Greater Manchester. He emphasized the defendants' right to a fair trial and cautioned against any reporting or commentary that could prejudice the proceedings. Ferguson also assured the Jewish community that their safety remains the highest priority.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans, senior national co-ordinator for CTP, described the charges and allegations as 'extremely serious'. She confirmed that the investigation, a joint effort with security services, successfully disrupted what was believed to be a plot targeting the Jewish community in Manchester. While reassuring the public that there is no ongoing threat, Evans urged continued vigilance. She acknowledged the significant concern within the Jewish community and wider public, especially given the timing during the High Holy Days, the anniversary of the Heaton Park synagogue attack, and the context of increasing antisemitic incidents across the UK. Evans also addressed broader threats from Iran, clarifying that while this incident and the RAF Fairford investigation are unconnected, CTP is using all capabilities to protect the UK from hostile acts, working proactively with national security partners and local police forces.

Deputy Chief Constable Terry Woods of Greater Manchester Police echoed concerns for Jewish communities, particularly around the anniversary of the Heaton Park atrocity and during the High Holy Days. He confirmed ongoing collaboration with community leaders, the Community Security Trust, and Counter Terrorism Police London, ensuring robust policing plans and visible officer presence within Jewish communities.

Bev Craig, Mayor of Greater Manchester, expressed shock and alarm, reiterating the chilling reminder of sustained threats against Jewish communities. She thanked the police and security services, confirming close contact with GMP and community leaders to ensure safety and challenge hatred. The Mayor also noted that the news comes during Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah holidays, and the anniversary of the Heaton Park synagogue attack, pledging to stamp out antisemitism. She reinforced the CTP's assessment that there is no ongoing threat but urged residents to remain vigilant and united against hate.