Five arrested in suspected terror plot after raids in Rochdale, Stockport and beyond

Sunday, 4 May 2025 10:49

By David Murphy

Five men have been arrested, including three in Greater Manchester, as part of a counter-terrorism operation investigating a suspected plot to target a specific premises.

Armed officers from the Metropolitan Police’s Counter Terrorism Command carried out a series of coordinated raids on Saturday evening (3 May), arresting individuals in Rochdale, Stockport and Manchester, as well as in Swindon and west London.

A 40-year-old man was detained at a property on East Street, Rochdale. Residents reported a loud bang before witnessing a shirtless man being led away by officers. A second man, aged 29, was arrested in the Stockport area following a separate operation on Heathbank Road in Cheadle Hulme. A third arrest was made in Manchester, although the suspect’s age has not yet been confirmed.

Simultaneous activity saw a 29-year-old man arrested in Swindon, and a 46-year-old man taken into custody in west London.

The arrests are part of a pre-planned operation targeting what authorities describe as a "suspected plot to target a specific premises." All five men have been arrested on suspicion of the preparation of a terrorist act under Section 5 of the Terrorism Act 2006. Four of the suspects – those arrested in Rochdale, Stockport, Swindon, and west London – are believed to be Iranian nationals. The nationality of the fifth man is still being established.

Commander Dominic Murphy, head of the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command, described the investigation as “fast-moving,” noting that officers are still in the early stages of piecing together motives and assessing the broader risks involved.

“We are working closely with those at the affected site to keep them updated,” Commander Murphy said. “We understand the public may be concerned and I would ask them to remain vigilant.”

Police confirmed that they are actively liaising with the impacted site to provide support and guidance, although further details remain confidential for operational reasons.

The raids, led by the Met Police, were supported by officers from Greater Manchester Police, Wiltshire Police and Counter Terrorism Policing nationally. As of Sunday morning, a heavy police presence remained on East Street, Rochdale, where the front door of the targeted house appeared severely damaged from forced entry.

All five suspects remain in custody while searches continue at several locations across Greater Manchester, London and Swindon.

The Metropolitan Police has appealed to the public for continued vigilance. Anyone with concerns is urged to contact the Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321 or report online at www.gov.uk/ACT. In an emergency, always dial 999.