Man, 31, is arrested on terrorism offences related to synagogue attack

by · Mail Online

A 31-year-old man has been arrested at Manchester Airport on terror charges connected to the Heaton Park synagogue attack last month. 

Police said the suspect was detained on suspicion of commission, preparation and instigation of acts of terrorism after landing on an inbound flight. 

It brings the total number of people arrested in connection with the atrocity on October 2 to seven. 

Jihad Al Shamie, 35, deliberately crashed his car outside Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue and began knifing worshippers at around 9.30am.

Worshippers Melvin Cravitz and Adrian Daulby were tragically killed in the attack, which happened on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar.

Assistant Chief Constable Rob Potts said: 'At around midday today, officers from Counter Terrorism Policing North West arrested a 31-year-old man in connection with the appalling terrorist attack that took place at the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue.

'The man was arrested at Manchester Airport after arriving on an inbound flight and has been taking into custody for questioning. 

'The loved ones of Mr Daulby and Mr Cravitz have been updated on this development, as have those who were seriously injured in the attack.

'Our investigation is continuing, and I would once again appeal for anyone with information that they think could assist our inquiries to please come forward.'

A 30-year-old man arrested on October 9 on suspicion of failing to disclose information contrary to S38B of the Terrorism Act 2000 remains on bail. 

Police said the suspect was detained on suspicion of commission, preparation and instigation of acts of terrorism after landing at Manchester Airport. Pictured: The scene of the attack
The profile picture which synagogue attacker Jihad Al-Shamie used as his profile on dating app Muzmatch
Al-Shamie (pictured outside the synagogue) travelled to Britain with his family as a young child and was granted UK citizenship in 2006, when he would have been around 16 

Al Shamie  - who was wearing a fake suicide belt - rang 999 during his atrocity and said: 'I have killed two Jews in the name of Islamic State .'

An inquest previously heard how armed police 'discharged several rounds' at the ISIS supporter, who died at the scene.

Mr Daulby, 53, died from a single gunshot wound to the chest after being struck by a stray bullet fired by one of the armed officers. 

Along with hero Rabbi David Walker he was bravely barricading the synagogue doors from inside as Al-Shamie tried to force entry.

The inquest at Manchester Coroner's Court also heard how another another worshipper Mr Cravitz, 66, died from knife wounds inflicted by Al-Shamie .

Police immediately declared the attack a suspected terrorist incident when Al-Shamie began attacking worshippers at about 9.30am and armed police were scrambled to the scene.

Still armed with a knife, Al-Shamie - a Syrian-born UK citizen - charged at the officers who unleashed a series of rounds, killing the terrorist.

Melvin Cravitz, 66, from Crumpsall, died in the deadly attack
Adrian Daulby, 53, also died after being accidentally shot by police

Despite being shot multiple times, he was not pronounced dead until 4.38pm due to concerns over his suspected explosive belt - which turned out to be fake.

Al-Shamie - who was on bail for rape at the time - was identified by matching his fingerprints to those on the police database, the senior detective said, in addition to being matched up to his car and mobile phone.

Three other people were injured in the attack.

Security guard Bernard Agyemang was driven into by Al-Shamie, worshipper Andrew Franks - who was on security duty - was stabbed, while Yoni Finlay was struck by a police bullet inside the synagogue.

All have since been discharged from hospital, Det Chf Supt Hughes said.

Full inquests on both victims plus Al-Shamie will be held at dates to be fixed.