Two men have been charged with terrorism offences following a major investigation into an alleged plot to target the Jewish community in Manchester.
Salam Ahmadyan, 36, of Liverpool, and Rahman Salehi, 34, of Salford—both Iranian nationals—were arrested in Manchester on Sunday, September 20. Following authorization from the Crown Prosecution Service, both men were charged on Friday, October 2, with engaging in conduct in preparation for terrorist acts, contrary to Section 5 of the Terrorism Act 2006.
Investigators allege that the pair were in contact with an overseas third party, potentially based in Iran, to facilitate the plot. According to charge particulars, the men engaged in extensive preparations, including researching potential targets, scouting locations, and acquiring instructions and components to assemble an improvised explosive device. They are specifically accused of utilizing encrypted applications to research the construction of homemade bombs and securing maps and plans of target locations.
Both men have been remanded in custody and are scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Saturday, October 3.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans, Senior National Coordinator for Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP), described the charges as “extremely serious.” She confirmed that the investigation successfully disrupted the threat, adding that there is currently no ongoing risk to the public. However, she acknowledged the significant alarm the news has caused, particularly as it coincides with the Jewish High Holy Days and the anniversary of the terror attack at the Heaton Park synagogue last year.
“This comes in a wider context of increasing antisemitic incidents across the UK, so we are very aware that this will likely increase what were already heightened concerns amongst the Jewish community,” Evans said. She also noted that while this incident is not connected to the recent security concerns at RAF Fairford, it highlights the broader spectrum of hostile threats currently being projected into the UK from Iran.
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) Deputy Chief Constable Terry Woods offered reassurance to local residents, confirming that police presence will remain high. “We know how concerning this news will be to Jewish communities in Greater Manchester and beyond,” Woods said. “Our ongoing and robust policing plans within the Jewish communities will endure, and the public can expect to see continued visibility with officers providing engagement and security.”
The investigation involved a multi-agency effort, including CTP, Greater Manchester Police, Merseyside Police, and national security services. As legal proceedings begin, authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant. Anyone with information or concerns is encouraged to contact the police via the national anti-terrorist hotline at 0800 789 321 or online at gov.uk/ACT. In an emergency, the public should always dial 999.
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