Mohmed Ahmad Abdulkarim appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 27 October, after being charged in connection with an investigation into a suspected foreign intelligence operation targeting RAF Fairford.

The 24-year-old British national faces one charge under the National Security Act 2023, accusing him of engaging in conduct likely to materially assist a foreign intelligence service between 31 August and 28 September 2026. Counter Terrorism Policing believes the foreign state involved may be Iran. However, the allegations have not been proven in court, and the case remains ongoing.

The case follows a major security incident on 27 September, when five men were arrested near RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, an airbase used by the United States military. Prosecutors allege that Abdulkarim acted as an intermediary for an individual known as “Ali”, who is suspected of operating on behalf of Iranian intelligence. During the court hearing, prosecutors claimed Abdulkarim received approximately £70,000 and helped arrange equipment and transport for a group of men.

According to the prosecution, three vans containing drums of petrol were driven towards the base. The incident prompted a significant police response, with officers searching the vehicles for explosives. No explosives were found, although petrol was recovered.

The circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation.

Abdulkarim appeared in court alongside 24-year-old Nouman Essghir, who faces a separate charge under the National Security Act 2023. Essghir is accused of approaching or inspecting a prohibited place for a purpose prejudicial to the UK’s safety or interests. The charge relates to alleged activity near RAF Fairford on 22 August. Prosecutors allege that Essghir carried out reconnaissance of the base before the September incident. However, these allegations have yet to be tested at trial.

Abdulkarim was granted bail following his court appearance, while Essghir was remanded in custody. Both men are due to appear at the Old Bailey on 20 November 2026. The investigation is continuing, with five other men arrested in connection with the incident remaining on police bail. British authorities have raised concerns about possible foreign state involvement, while Iran has denied responsibility for the alleged operation.

The case is now expected to progress through the courts, where the allegations against both defendants will be considered. Both men are entitled to a fair trial, and neither should be treated as guilty unless proven so in court.