Counter-terror police thwart alleged plot against Manchester's Jewish community
Two men have been arrested following a series of rapid police raids across Greater Manchester and Liverpool in connection with an alleged imminent threat.
Counter-terrorism officers have foiled a suspected plot targeting the Jewish community in Manchester, following a series of coordinated raids across the region.
The operation began on Sunday afternoon when plain-clothed officers arrived at a property on Newton Street in the Northern Quarter. This initial strike was followed on Monday by further searches at Lancaster House, a men's hostel in Salford, and a residential flat in Liverpool.
The Metropolitan Police, who are leading the investigation, confirmed that two men were detained under Section 41 of the Terrorism Act 2000. This specific legislation allows officers to arrest suspects without a warrant in urgent, fast-moving situations.
According to the Manchester Evening News, the investigation is expected to expand into the Cheetham Hill and Heaton Park areas. However, the Met Police has reassured residents that there is currently no intelligence suggesting a wider threat to the general public.
The arrests coincided with preparations for Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. It also marked the first anniversary of the tragic terror attack at the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation, which claimed the lives of Melvin Cravitz and Adrian Daulby.
Marc Levy, chief executive of the Jewish Representative Council of Greater Manchester, described the timing of the foiled plot as deeply unsettling for the community and urged the government to intensify its efforts to combat extremism at its root.
Security has been significantly heightened around Jewish neighbourhoods and institutions across Greater Manchester, with armed police deployed to provide reassurance during the religious observances.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where did the police raids take place?
- Officers raided a property on Newton Street in Manchester's Northern Quarter, a men's hostel on Lancaster Road in Salford, and a flat in Liverpool.
- Why were the men arrested?
- Two men were detained under Section 41 of the Terrorism Act 2000 in connection with an alleged imminent threat targeting Manchester's Jewish community.
- Is there a wider threat to the public?
- The Metropolitan Police, who are leading the investigation, have stated that there is currently no information to suggest any wider threat to the general public.