A serious security incident unfolded at Manchester Central Mosque in Victoria Park on Tuesday evening, February 24, during Taraweeh prayers in the holy month of Ramadan. Two men entered the mosque, acting suspiciously and reportedly armed with multiple weapons, prompting swift action from mosque volunteers and a significant police response. Although no threats were explicitly made and thankfully no one was injured, the incident has left the Muslim community in Manchester deeply concerned and fearful.

At approximately 8:30pm to 8:40pm, volunteers at the mosque on Upper Park Road observed two men behaving suspiciously. One man, described as white and in his 50s, wearing a high-visibility jacket, was seen carrying a large bag with an axe visible. He reportedly claimed to be at the mosque to perform work, a claim staff had no knowledge of. The second man, described as black, in his late 40s with an athletic build, short stubbled facial hair, and wearing a grey hoody under a navy blue jacket with blue tracksuit bottoms and white trainers, was also reported to be acting suspiciously. Mosque volunteers quickly acted, restraining one of the suspects and escorting him to a side room where he was found to be carrying multiple weapons, including a hammer and a knife, in addition to the axe.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) were called to the scene at around 8:40pm. Officers swiftly attended and arrested the white man in his 50s on suspicion of carrying an offensive weapon and possession of Class B drugs. He remains in custody for questioning. The second suspect reportedly left the mosque before police arrived, and a search is now underway to locate him, with police appealing for public assistance and reviewing CCTV footage. GMP has confirmed that, while detectives from Counter Terrorism Policing North West are involved to thoroughly explore all lines of enquiry, the incident has not been declared a terrorist incident. However, police patrols have been significantly increased around mosques across Greater Manchester to reassure communities during Ramadan.

The incident has sparked widespread concern among Muslim communities and political leaders. Hammad Khan, President of Manchester Central Mosque, described the community as “very, very fearful,” noting a significant increase in hate mail and threats in recent years. The mosque urged attendees to remain vigilant, advising them to travel in groups and ensure children are not left unattended. Maryam Khan, a worshipper, expressed shock and sadness, highlighting that the community is