Romanians Sentenced for Attack on Iranian Journalist Outside London Home

Key points:

Two Romanian men were jailed for a 'targeted' knife attack on an Iranian journalist in Wimbledon, allegedly on behalf of the Iranian regime.
Pouria Zeraati, who worked for a critical Persian-language TV channel, was stabbed three times outside his home.
The judge said there is strong evidence that the attack was carried out by a foreign power acting through these Romanian men.
Stana received 12 years and Badea eight years in prison.

What Happened

Pouria Zeraati, an Iranian journalist who worked for Iran International, a TV channel critical of the Tehran regime, was stabbed three times outside his home in Wimbledon on March 29, 2024. The attack left him bleeding in the street.

Investigation and Convictions

Romanians Sentenced for Attack on Iranian Journalist Outside London Home

Nandito Badea, 21, and George Stana, 25, were convicted of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. They allegedly took part in a 'targeted' attack that was carried out for the benefit of a foreign power.

Details of the Attack

The prosecution argued that the attack was planned over a year before it occurred and involved reconnaissance by Badea and Andrei, who are still at large. Stana waited in a car near the scene to facilitate their escape.

Reaction from Authorities

Ch Supt Kris Wright of Counter-Terrorism Policing London highlighted the increasing use of 'proxies' by hostile foreign states and stressed that such attacks will not be tolerated, with plans to bring those involved to justice.

Source: The Guardian

#journalist #stabbings #terrorism #iranspying #ukpolice

Uk News Feed

278 posts