Counter Terrorism Policing chief Laurence Taylor has given a grim update on the shocking incident outside the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue.
Suspect Came, Went, Then Returned to Launch Attack
Taylor revealed a man was seen acting suspiciously outside the synagogue before security confronted him and he walked off. “We don’t believe this was reported to police as he had already left the area,” Taylor said. But just 15 minutes later, the same man returned behind the wheel of a vehicle and began his brutal assault.
Thanks to the quick thinking of security staff, worshippers, and police, the attacker never made it inside despite a large crowd being present.
Two Dead, Three Seriously Injured
Tragically, Adrian Daulby, 53, and Melvin Cravitz, 66, lost their lives. Three other men remain critically injured in hospital.
The suspected attacker, 35-year-old Jihad Al-Shamie, died at the scene. Police found a suspicious device strapped to his torso but confirmed it was a fake.
Suspect’s Troubled Past and Terror Links
Al-Shamie was not previously known to Counter Terrorism Police but had a criminal record unrelated to terrorism, including a recent rape arrest for which he had been bailed.
“We believe Al-Shamie may have been influenced by extreme Islamist ideology,” Taylor said. The full facts behind the attack will take time to uncover.
More Arrests as Investigation Deepens
Police have now arrested six people in total on suspicion of terrorism offences, including one man and two women aged between 18 and mid-40s.
Warrants for further detention are being sought.
“Please refrain from speculation or sharing unverified info,” Taylor urged. “This can delay our enquiries and cause further harm to victims and families.”
“If you have any information, contact police via the Major Incident Public Portal online.”
Originally published on UKNIP