Terror Plot Foiled! Police Act to Protect Jewish Community

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) has reassured the community that there is no current "ongoing risk" linked to a recent counter-terrorism operation, specifically addressing the Jewish community ahead of Sukkot. This reassurance comes as the force confirmed a "robust policing presence" would continue across Greater Manchester during the Jewish High Holy Days, featuring dedicated patrols and an enhanced command structure to ensure safety.

The operation involved counter-terrorism officers from the Metropolitan Police, who arrested two suspects in Manchester on Sunday, September 20. These arrests were connected to an alleged threat reportedly planned against the Jewish community, as reported by the Manchester Evening News on Tuesday, September 22. Officers first descended on Newton Street in Manchester's Northern Quarter, arresting two men on suspicion of terrorism. This was followed by a second operation at a hostel on Lancaster Road in Salford and a subsequent raid on a flat in Liverpool, with searches continuing at these addresses.

Despite the arrests, police maintain they do not believe there is any ongoing threat to the public directly related to this investigation. GMP emphasized that additional resources would remain visible within Jewish communities as Sukkot approaches, with the festival commencing at sunset on Friday, September 25. Officers are committed to patrolling streets on foot, engaging with the public, and directing individuals to report any suspicious activity through appropriate channels. The force also highlighted its continued use of additional funding to strengthen specialist tactics and enhance its community-led approach, fostering ongoing engagement with community leaders to ensure the Jewish community can observe Sukkot "without fear of harm."

Chief Superintendent Dave Meeney, serving as the Gold commander for the High Holy Days, acknowledged the heightened concerns within Jewish communities, especially during this significant time of year. He stated, “We recognise and understand this concern, and I want to make it absolutely clear that our work to provide as much visibility and security as we can through additional activity, which remains very much ongoing.” Meeney underscored that while there is no believed ongoing risk linked to Counter Terrorism Policing’s activity this week, the force will continue to listen and respond proportionately and effectively to concerns, stressing the vital role of public cooperation, support, and reporting in shaping their response during times of anxiety.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans, the Senior National Coordinator for Counter Terrorism Policing, indicated that counter-terrorism police are "acutely aware" that these arrests could generate concern, particularly during the High Holy Day period. The arrests occurred as Jewish communities were preparing to mark Yom Kippur on Monday, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, and coincided with the first anniversary of the deadly attack at the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation on October 2 last year, which claimed the lives of Melvin Cravitz and Adrian Daulby.

The two suspects arrested on Sunday were detained under Section 41 of the Terrorism Act 2000, which grants police the authority to arrest individuals suspected of terrorism without a warrant. GMP encourages anyone with concerns or information to contact the police via 101 or their website’s live chat. For anonymous reporting, Crimestoppers can be reached at 0800 555 111, and in case of an emergency, individuals should always call 999.