The arrests this morning were part of an investigation into suspected surveillance of locations and individuals linked to the Jewish community

A lamp with 'Metropolitan Police' in white set in blue glass, outside a red brick police station building — Credit – Met Police

Two men were arrested in Barnet this morning on suspicion of spying for Iran.

The men, aged 40 and 55, were arrested at addresses in Barnet shortly after 1am as part of a pre-planned operation by counter terrorism police that also led to arrests in Watford and Harrow.

In total, four men, including those at Barnet addresses, were arrested on suspicion of assisting a foreign intelligence service, while six more were arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender. All ten have been taken into custody.

The four men accused of spying are one Iranian and three dual British/Iranian nationals. Police say the investigation relates to suspected surveillance of locations and individuals linked to the Jewish community in the London area.

Commander Helen Flanagan, Head of Counter Terrorism Policing London, said: “Today’s arrests are part of a long-running investigation and part of our ongoing work to disrupt malign activity where we suspect it.

“We understand the public may be concerned, in particular the Jewish community, and as always, I would ask them to remain vigilant and if they see or hear anything that concerns them, then to contact us.”

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