A suspected bomb plot aimed at Manchester’s Jewish community has led to terrorism charges against two Iranian men living in the UK, authorities said.
Salam Ahmadyan, 36, of Liverpool, and Rahman Salehi, 34, of Salford, were arrested in Manchester on Sunday 20 September and have since been charged with engaging in conduct in preparation for terrorist acts, Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP) said.
Investigators allege the pair were in contact with an overseas third party over the suspected plan, with CTP saying that person may be in Iran.
It is understood Mr Ahmadyan and Mr Salehi entered the UK by small boat in 2020 and 2023. One of the men was granted asylum, while the other has an active asylum claim.
Both have been remanded in custody and are due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court.
The arrests came shortly before Yom Kippur — widely regarded as the holiest day in the Jewish calendar — which ran from sundown on 20 September to nightfall on 21 September.
CTP said the men are accused of receiving instructions to make a chlorine bomb.
Police also allege the pair obtained liquids, components and equipment needed to manufacture or assemble an improvised explosive device.
According to CTP, the two men are further accused of using the internet to identify and research potential targets, obtaining images, plans and maps linked to those locations, and carrying out reconnaissance of potential attack sites.
UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said: “These recent events are a stark reminder of the threats posed against this country from both terrorists and foreign state actors.
“Two suspects have been charged with planning a terrorist attack against Jewish communities in Manchester.
“The fact both suspects arrived by small boat several years ago is a reminder of the importance of our relentless work to tackle illegal migration into this country. While numbers are down, I know there is more we must do.”
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans, senior national co-ordinator for Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP), said: “These are extremely serious charges and allegations, and have come about from a joint CTP investigation, working closely with our partners in the security services.
“This investigation has led to the disruption of what we believe to have been a plot targeting the Jewish community in Manchester.
“I would like to reiterate that we do not believe there to be any ongoing threat to the public in relation to this matter, but as always, we would ask that people remain vigilant and contact police with any concerns.
“This week also brought into sharp focus some of the wider threats being projected into the UK from Iran,” she added.
Mayor of Greater Manchester Bev Craig said: “The charging of two men following the counter terror investigation into an alleged plot to target our Jewish community will cause shock, alarm and concern within the community and across Greater Manchester.
“This is another chilling reminder of the real and sustained threats facing our Jewish communities.”
