Two British men have been formally charged in connection with an alleged plot linked to Iran's intelligence service following a security incident near RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire. The men, 24-year-olds Mohmed Abdulkarim and Nouman Essghir, both from London, appeared at Westminster magistrates’ court on October 27. Abdulkarim faces charges under the National Security Act 2023 for assisting a foreign intelligence service, while Essghir is charged with entering a prohibited place for purposes prejudicial to the United Kingdom.
The case stems from events on September 27, when police stopped three vans near RAF Fairford, which were reportedly loaded with petrol. Five men, including Essghir, were held at gunpoint and arrested at the scene. Prosecutors have said the individuals were acting under directions from an Iranian handler identified only as “Ali,” who is believed to operate on behalf of Iran’s intelligence services. One of the men reportedly called police after receiving a warning that a bomb was in one of the vehicles.
Evidence presented during the court proceedings indicates that Abdulkarim received over £65,000 in cash from Ali to facilitate purchases of mobile phones, five vans, vehicle dash cams, and fuel. These vans, some branded as part of small business fronts such as “Fuel2You,” were allegedly acquired for purposes related to the suspected plot. Essghir is accused of conducting reconnaissance around the RAF Fairford base, including making video calls with Ali while driving around the perimeter.
Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP) officials have stated that the investigation points to Iran’s involvement and intelligence direction. Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor, head of national counter-terrorism policing in the UK, acknowledged that some operational decisions, such as releasing the initial suspects on bail, may appear illogical to the public but emphasized that these measures were part of a broader strategy that ultimately led to charges being filed.
The investigation is ongoing, with five other men arrested during the initial inquiry remaining on police bail. A 25-year-old UK-Iranian dual national who was arrested on suspicion of aiding Iranian intelligence has been released without charge but remains on bail. Prosecutors have affirmed their commitment to pursuing the case as it develops, highlighting its complexity.
Abdulkarim, who appeared in court using a wheelchair and was described as having vulnerabilities, was granted conditional bail with restrictions including an electronically monitored curfew and surrender of his passport. Essghir was remanded in custody. Both men are scheduled to appear at the Old Bailey on November 20.
Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any concerns related to national security, citing recent incidents believed to be linked to Iran’s state-directed activities within the UK.