Anti-terrorist operations under way in London

London, May 24 (UNI) About 500 police officers carrying out anti-terrorist operations across the country since early morning today have arrested eight people.

The operation is being led by Greater Manchester Police anti-terrorist unit. Raids are expected to last all day.

The series of raids, jointly organised with MI5, are allegedly targeting those suspected of plotting and facilitating attacks overseas, the sources said.

Properties are being searched with warrants issued under the Terrorism Act.

A car parked outside one property raided in Moss Side, south of Manchester city centre, was towed away during the night.

A spokeswoman for the Greater Manchester force said, ''Extensive operation targeting individuals suspected of facilitating terrorism abroad was under way.'' A spokeswoman for the Home Office said the arrests were part of an operation by the Immigration Service and the police but did not divulge any further details.

Out of the eight arrests made so far, seven have been in Greater Manchester and one in Merseyside.

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