Counter-terrorism officers in London have arrested a man and a woman suspected of providing assistance to Iran’s foreign intelligence service.
Police carried out searches at residential addresses in north and north-west London on 24 June, leading to the detention of a 42-year-old woman and a 60-year-old man.
A third property in north-west London was searched on 9 September following their arrest under the National Security Act.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed the investigation is unrelated to recent attacks on buildings and venues connected to Jewish and Iranian communities in London, and is also not linked to activity during the Jewish high holy days.
Both individuals have been released on conditional bail pending further inquiries in October.
Commander Helen Flanagan, head of counter-terrorism policing in London, stated: “We understand these arrests may cause concern, but I want to emphasize that we do not believe there is any imminent threat to the public in connection with this investigation.
We have observed a significant increase in national security and state threat activity over the past year, and this probe represents a continuation of that effort.
Should we identify any activity that could endanger the UK or its citizens, we will act decisively.
I would also remind the public that the overall terrorism threat level remains severe. Please remain vigilant and report anything suspicious to us immediately.”