The UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA) has arrested four individuals suspected of involvement in a series of high-profile cyberattacks that have targeted leading retail businesses across the country in recent weeks. The coordinated operation, carried out early this morning, marks a significant development in the ongoing effort to combat cybercrime affecting the UK’s commercial sector.
According to the NCA, the suspects were apprehended at their respective residences during simultaneous raids. The individuals arrested include two young men from the West Midlands—a 17-year-old British national and a 19-year-old Latvian national—a 19-year-old British man from London, and a 20-year-old British woman from Staffordshire. Authorities have withheld the names of the suspects pending further investigation.
The arrests are linked to what officials have described as the “big three” cyberattacks, which have caused substantial disruption to retail operations and raised concerns about the security of digital infrastructure within the sector. The NCA has not disclosed specific details about the nature of the attacks, citing the sensitive and ongoing nature of the investigation.
“These arrests demonstrate our commitment to identifying and apprehending those responsible for serious cybercrime,” an NCA spokesperson said. “We are working closely with affected businesses and other partners to ensure the integrity of the UK’s retail sector.”
The suspects are currently in custody and will be questioned regarding their alleged roles in the cyberattacks. The NCA has indicated that further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
