Two Men Charged Under National Security Act Over RAF Fairford Incident

Two men, both 24, face National Security Act charges after a counterterrorism investigation into an incident at RAF Fairford.

• Mohmed Abdulkarim, of Westminster, is charged with assisting a foreign intelligence service.
• Prosecutors allege his conduct likely aided a foreign service's UK-related activities.
• Nouman Essghir, of London, is charged with entering a prohibited place.
• That charge alleges a purpose prejudicial to the UK.

Why it matters: The charges rely on the National Security Act 2023, which targets foreign interference and spying. The Crown Prosecution Service calls the RAF Fairford incident high-profile.

• Frank Ferguson of the CPS said the investigation is complex and ongoing.

How 8 sources split on this story

What’s next: Both men are scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court today.

• Prosecutors say they will keep working with partners as the investigation continues.
• Which foreign intelligence service, if any, prosecutors allege was involved.
• What happened during the RAF Fairford incident itself.
• Whether more charges or arrests will follow.