British Police Charge Three Iranian Men with Espionage Offenses
British police charged three Iranian men with spying following a counterterror investigation. Mostafa Sepahvand, Farhad Javadi Manesh, and Shapoor Qalehali Khani Noori were implicated in assisting Iranian intelligence and planning violence. They remain in custody and will appear in court soon.
LONDON — In a significant development, British police announced on Saturday that three Iranian men have been charged with spying crimes. This follows a thorough investigation by counterterror detectives within the Metropolitan Police Force. The individuals charged are Mostafa Sepahvand, aged 39, Farhad Javadi Manesh, 44, and Shapoor Qalehali Khani Noori, 55, all of whom reside in London.
The charges involve allegations of “engaging in conduct likely to assist a foreign intelligence service,” specifically the Iranian intelligence, within a timeframe ranging from August 14, 2024, to February 16, 2025. All three men have remained in custody since their apprehension on May 3 and are expected to face a court hearing later the same day.
Additionally, Sepahvand faces further charges of engaging in “surveillance, reconnaissance, and open-source research” aimed at committing serious violence against a person within the UK. Meanwhile, Javadi Manesh and Khani Noori are implicated in similar activities with intent for others to carry out violent acts.
Details surrounding the alleged victim remain undisclosed, leaving many questions unanswered regarding the circumstances of the case. Police officials are ensuring that the investigation remains a priority.
Commander Dominic Murphy from the Metropolitan Police’s Counter Terrorism Command described the charges as “extremely serious,” underscoring the potential threat posed by such activities.
A fourth individual who was arrested during this investigation has since been released without charge, bringing attention to the ongoing and sensitive nature of the case.
In summary, this case marks a significant effort by British authorities to tackle espionage and potential violent threats involving foreign intelligence services. With serious implications for national security, the investigation continues. The collaboration of counterterror detectives has been crucial in addressing this alarming issue, and the public awaits further developments and clarity regarding the individuals involved.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
