Counter-Terrorism Police Arrest Two Men in Manchester Over Alleged Plot Targeting the Jewish Community

Two men have been arrested on suspicion of plotting terrorist attacks in the Manchester area, police have announced. The pair, both in their 30s, were detained as part of a long-running investigation into an alleged plot targeting the Jewish community in Manchester.

The arrests take place a year after two worshippers attending services for the holy day of Yom Kippur were killed in a terrorist attack at Heaton Park Hebrew Synagogue in the city. During that previous attack, Jihad Al Shamie, 35, drove his car at worshippers, attacked others with a knife, and attempted to storm the synagogue while wearing a fake suicide belt, prompting British PM Burnham to tell victims 'you are not alone.'

The two suspects were apprehended on Newton Street, Manchester, on suspicion of offenses under Section 41 of the Terrorism Act 2000. They have been transported to a London police station for questioning, where they remain in custody.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans, the UK's Senior National Co-ordinator for Counter Terrorism Policing, stated that the arrests are part of a proactive investigation into the suspected plot against the Manchester area Jewish community. 'As we have shown with these arrests, where we suspect there could be a threat to the public, then we will not hesitate to investigate and take action,' Evans said, adding that authorities do not believe there is any ongoing threat to the public.

Police acknowledged that the arrests may cause concern during the High Holy Days period and noted that counter-terrorism officers are working closely with Greater Manchester Police and local forces to provide protective security support and advice. Authorities have obtained warrants of further detention, allowing the men to be held in police custody until Sunday, September 27.