The UK Government has formally designated three foreign organisations under the National Security (State Threats) Act 2026, making it a criminal offence to support, assist or receive material benefits from the groups as part of strengthened efforts to protect national security.
From 17 July, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), the Islamic Movement of Companions of the Right (IMCR) and Russia’s GRU Volunteer Corps have officially been designated after Parliament approved an order laid before it by the Home Secretary on 13 July.
The move marks the first time the UK has used the new designation powers introduced under the National Security (State Threats) Act 2026. The government said the legislation is designed to strengthen the UK’s ability to respond to hostile state-linked threats and activities that endanger public safety and national security.
Under the new law, expressing support for any of the designated organisations is now a criminal offence if it involves encouraging or glorifying activities that threaten the safety or interests of the United Kingdom.
Individuals who assist these organisations or knowingly receive material benefits from them, including financial payments or other forms of support, also commit a criminal offence.
Those convicted under the legislation could face prison sentences of up to 14 years.
Tougher powers to combat state-linked threats
The UK Government said the new designation powers are intended to provide law enforcement agencies with stronger legal tools to tackle organisations linked to hostile state activity.
The three designated organisations are the first to be added to the UK’s official list of designated bodies under the National Security (State Threats) Act 2026.
Authorities have also warned that individuals acting on behalf of these organisations could face additional criminal charges under the National Security Act 2023 if they engage in activities such as sabotage or other actions that threaten national security.
Convictions for the most serious offences under the National Security Act 2023 can carry a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.
The government said the new legal framework reflects its commitment to protecting the UK against foreign interference, hostile state activity and threats to national security.
The designation means law enforcement agencies now have broader powers to investigate and prosecute individuals who provide support, resources or other forms of assistance to the listed organisations.
What the new law means
The National Security (State Threats) Act 2026 creates new offences specifically aimed at preventing support for organisations that are considered to threaten the UK’s safety and national interests.
The legislation makes clear that encouraging the activities of designated organisations or benefiting from them financially is now a criminal offence.
The government says these measures are intended to deter hostile activities linked to foreign states while strengthening the UK’s national security framework.
The designated organisations have now been formally added to the UK’s official list of designated bodies, bringing them within the scope of the new criminal offences.
For Nigerians and other members of the diaspora living in the UK, the new legislation highlights the government’s continued focus on national security and foreign interference. Community organisations, students, professionals and residents should remain aware of UK laws relating to national security and ensure they avoid any activities that could inadvertently breach these regulations.
As the legal framework evolves, understanding changes to UK national security laws is important for everyone living, studying or working in Britain. Chijos News remains committed to keeping Nigerians in the UK informed about major government policies, legal developments, immigration updates and public affairs that may affect diaspora communities across the country.