Headline: Major Police Operation Underway After Tragic Attack at Manchester Synagogue Summary: In response to a heartbreaking incident at a synagogue in Manchester, law enforcement agencies have launched a comprehensive police operation. The attack has prompted a swift and coordinated effort to ensure community safety and apprehend those responsible. Key Points: Incident Overview: A tragic attack occurred at a synagogue in Manchester, leading to heightened security measures and police...
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In a disturbing incident that occurred on the holiest day of the Jewish calendar, four individuals were arrested in connection with a violent attack at a synagogue in Manchester. The event took place at the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Crumpsall, where a car was driven into the premises, followed by a stabbing spree.
The attack unfolded on Yom Kippur, a day of profound significance for the Jewish community, prompting a swift response from law enforcement. The situation escalated when police were compelled to use lethal force against the assailant, Jihad Al-Shamie, a 35-year-old man previously on bail for an alleged rape.
Details of the incident and ongoing investigation
During the attack, three men sustained serious injuries and were subsequently hospitalized. Among them were a security guard injured by the vehicle and a worker from the Community Security Trust who suffered stab wounds.
Tragically, two individuals lost their lives during the confrontation with Al-Shamie.
Adrian Daulby, 53, was fatally shot while attempting to prevent the attacker from breaching the synagogue’s entrance. Alongside him, Melvin Cravitz, 66, a devoted worshipper, also died heroically trying to thwart the assault. The police operation is being led by Counter Terrorism Policing North West (CTPNW), which has been granted additional time to question the four suspects arrested on suspicion of preparing terrorist acts.
Profile of the suspects and the police’s response
Among the detained are two men aged 30 and 32, and a woman aged 61, all captured in Prestwich. Additionally, another 46-year-old woman was arrested in Farnworth. As the investigation continues, reports indicate that two other individuals, an 18-year-old woman and a 43-year-old man, were also apprehended but released without charges shortly thereafter.
In a statement, Greater Manchester Police confirmed that their investigation is progressing rapidly, with substantial resources deployed to uncover the full scope of the events. The police are also enhancing patrols in the area to reassure the local community.
Community reactions and political statements
The attack has prompted widespread concern among the Jewish community in the UK, leading to statements from political leaders. Kemi Badenoch, leader of the Conservative Party, visited the synagogue accompanied by Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham and Assistant Chief Constable John Webster. Badenoch emphasized that Jewish individuals in the UK deserve enhanced security, particularly as some are reportedly relocating to Israel amid ongoing conflicts.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer also visited the site of the attack and urged respect for the mourning process within the Jewish community. He cautioned against protests planned in Manchester and London, stressing the importance of avoiding additional grief for those affected by the tragedy.
Fundraising efforts and community solidarity
In light of the attack, a fundraising campaign for the Community Security Trust has gained momentum, with significant donations pouring in. A supporter, Andrew Fox, initiated a GoFundMe page, which has already surpassed £16,000 of its £22,000 goal to bolster community safety initiatives. The CST expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support, highlighting the importance of such contributions during these challenging times.
In a show of solidarity, a moment of silence was observed during Manchester United’s match against Sunderland, honoring the victims of the attack. The head of counter-terrorism policing, Laurence Taylor, confirmed that a suspicious device attached to Al-Shamie was found to be fake, and preliminary assessments suggest that he may have been influenced by extremist ideologies, although he was not previously known to counter-terrorism units.
