London police arrest two suspects for suspected Iranian espionage

London counter-terrorism officers have arrested a 42-year-old woman and a 60-year-old man on suspicion of assisting Iranian intelligence. The arrests were made under the National Security Act 2023, specifically regarding offenses related to ‘assisting a foreign intelligence service.’

The investigation follows searches conducted on June 24 at two residential properties in North and Northwest London. Both suspects have been released on bail under strict conditions, including travel restrictions, and are scheduled to appear before authorities in late October.

Police stated that this investigation is not linked to previous incidents or attacks earlier this year targeting Jewish or Iranian communities in London. Helen Flanagan, head of London's counter-terrorism police, noted that while the arrests may cause public concern, there is no perceived imminent threat to the general public. She highlighted a significant increase in national security work related to foreign state threats over the past year.