UK Police Disrupt Suspected Terror Plot Targeting Manchester's Jewish Community
Counter-Terrorism Operation in Northern England
LONDON, Sept 22 (Reuters) - British counter-terrorism police said on Tuesday that they had arrested two people as part of an investigation into a suspected terrorist plot to target the Jewish community in northern England.
Details of the Arrests
Police said the two men, aged in their 30s, were held in central Manchester on Sunday with searches also carried out in Salford and Liverpool.
Official Statement from Counter Terrorism Policing
"This has been a long-running proactive investigation which has led to the disruption of what we believe to be a plot to target the Jewish community in the Manchester area," Vicki Evans, Senior National Coordinator for Counter Terrorism Policing, said in a statement.
Current Threat Assessment and Police Response
She said detectives did not believe that there was any ongoing threat, but police in Manchester said they had stepped up a policing operation during upcoming Jewish High Holy days.
Context: Previous Attacks and Community Concerns
Last year two Jewish worshippers were killed in an attack on a synagogue in Manchester which was committed by a British citizen of Syrian descent who had said he was acting for Islamic State.
Reassurances to the Jewish Community
"We are acutely aware this news will cause further concern to the Jewish community, as well as the wider public, especially given the significant High Holy day period," Evans said.
"I want to reassure them we are working incredibly closely with colleagues in Greater Manchester Police and partners to ensure we’re doing everything we can to keep them and the wider public safe."
(Reporting by Sam Tobin; editing by Michael Holden)
