Counter-Terror Charges Rock Salford: Two Men Remanded After Incident

Two men have been remanded in custody after being charged by counter-terror police following an incident in Salford in the early hours of Sunday, September 6.

Harley Elliot, 20, of St Brelades Drive, Salford, and McKenzie Smyth, 19, of Grantham Drive, Bury, have both been charged with going equipped to cause criminal damage and possession of an offensive weapon. Both men are identified as white British.

Police were called to Singleton Road in the Broughton Park area of Salford at 1:50 am on Sunday, September 6, following reports of two men 'acting suspiciously'.

The defendants appeared at Manchester Magistrates’ Court for a hearing on Monday, September 7. They were not asked to enter any plea to the charges. District Judge John McGarva remanded the defendants in custody, and the case was adjourned until next Monday, September 14, for a further hearing at the same court.

In a statement, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) confirmed that due to the circumstances of the incident, Counter Terrorism Policing North West is leading the investigation. They are working closely with GMP to provide continued support to the local community.

GMP Assistant Chief Constable Mark Dexter extended his thanks to the community for reporting their concerns, which allowed traffic patrols to respond and arrest the two charged men. He stated, “No one came to harm, but due to the nature of the incident, counter terrorism detectives are leading this investigation, and we will continue to keep local community leaders and our partner agencies updated.”

Assistant Chief Constable Dexter further emphasized that GMP will continue to work closely with the local community, including the Jewish community, especially as they approach a significant time of year for their faith. Tightened policing plans have been formed through engagement with these communities. He urged people to remain vigilant and report anything that does not seem right to the authorities.