Manchester Synagogue attacker confronted by security 15 minutes before terror attack

The terrorist who attacked Heaton Park synagogue was spotted 'acting suspiciously' at the scene a quarter of an hour before the incident, according to police.

Jihad al-Shamie, 35, a British citizen, targeted worshippers arriving for Yom Kippur prayers at the synagogue yesterday morning (October 2), the most sacred day in the Jewish calendar.

He then launched a knife attack on individuals, including security guard Melvin Cravitz, 66, who sadly lost his life. Al-Shamie was shot on site by armed officers and later died, reports the Manchester Evening News.

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Another congregant, Adrian Daulby, 53, who tried to stop the attacker from entering the synagogue, was also tragically killed, believed to be due to police cross-fire.

Police investigations have been ongoing throughout the day, with a large cordon set up in north Manchester and continuous searches elsewhere, including at a property in Farnworth in Bolton, as understood by the M. E.N.

Late on Friday (October 3), the head of counter terrorism policing announced that three more individuals, aged between 18 and mid 40s, have been arrested in relation to the attack.

These latest arrests bring the total number of those detained to six, with two men in their 30s and a woman in her 60s arrested yesterday on suspicion of commission, preparation and instigation of acts of terrorism. Police also provided further details about how the attack took place.

Laurence Taylor, Head of Counter Terrorism Policing, stated: "I am now able to share more information regarding our investigation, however I must stress that we are in the relatively early stages of our enquiries, and this remains a developing picture.

"We have been told from witness accounts that a man was seen acting suspiciously outside the synagogue before he was confronted by security and walked away.

"Based on the information we have at this time, we don't believe this was reported to Greater Manchester Police because the man had left the area.

"Around 15 minutes later, the individual returned in a vehicle and began his horrific attack. There were a large number of worshippers in attendance but thanks to the bravery of security staff, worshippers and the fast action of the police, the attacker was prevented from gaining access."

Mr Taylor continued: "I want to express my deepest sympathies to all the innocent people involved in the appalling terrorist incident. They are at the forefront of our minds as the Counter Terrorism Policing investigation continues.

"We will be seeking warrants of further detention for all six individuals and will seek to issue an update on this later. I would like to once again stress that our investigation is still in its early stages. I know there is significant public interest in this case, and we will seek to provide timely updates on our progress where possible.

"We would ask people to refrain from speculation or sharing unverified information as that could potentially cause unnecessary delays in our enquiries and additional upset for all those impacted by these horrific events. If you have information then please contact police via the Major Incident Public Portal which is available online here."