Two men have been charged under the National Security Act 2023 over an investigation into activity near RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, Counter Terrorism Policing has said. The charges follow a major police operation at the base on 27 September.
What Happened
Counter Terrorism Policing said on Tuesday 27 October that Nouman Essghir, 24, a British national from Westminster, London, had been charged under Section 4 of the National Security Act 2023. Police said the suspected activity took place on Saturday 22 August. He was first arrested at the scene in Gloucestershire on 27 September and was re-arrested on 20 October.
Charges Under the National Security Act
A second man, Mohmed Ahmad Abdulkarim, 24, a British national from Westminster, has been charged under Section 3 of the Act. That section makes it an offence to assist a foreign intelligence service. Police said the investigation relates to Iran.
A 25-year-old dual UK and Iranian national who was also re-arrested on 20 October has been released without charge. Police said five other men arrested in connection with the investigation remain on police bail.
Background
The case began on Sunday 27 September, when armed officers responded to a major incident near RAF Fairford. Five men were arrested in the Whelford area on suspicion of offences under the Explosives Act and were later arrested on suspicion of preparing a terrorist act under Section 5 of the Terrorism Act. Some homes were evacuated during the operation.
Further arrests followed. A man was arrested in Westminster on 1 October, and another arrest on 6 October led to bail on 8 October. The Prime Minister said on 30 September there was a “strong indication” that Iran was involved. Counter Terrorism Policing said seven men had been arrested by 20 October, when two were re-arrested under the National Security Act. A warrant of further detention then allowed police to hold them until 27 October.
What Happens Next
The police statement did not give court dates for the two men who have been charged. The five other men remain on bail while the investigation continues. The police statement did not say whether further charges are expected.
This is a developing story. We will update it as more information becomes available.
