A “suspected terrorist plot” to target the Jewish community in Manchester is believed to have been foiled after two men were arrested in the city on Sunday, police have said.
The men, both in their 30s, were detained on suspicion of offences under Section 41 of the Terrorism Act 2000, according to the Metropolitan Police, which is leading the investigation.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans said police were aware the news would cause “further concern” to the Jewish community “especially given the significant High Holy day period”.
Yom Kippur – considered to be the holiest day in the Jewish calendar – was marked this year from Sunday evening to Monday evening.
The two suspects remain in police custody after being taken to a London police station for questioning.
Police said the investigation related to a “suspected terrorist plot to target the Jewish community in the Manchester area”.
“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,” said Evans.
“Counter-terrorism policing (CTP) continue to focus our efforts on identifying and disrupting those who wish to cause harm in our communities.
“Importantly, we do not believe there to be any ongoing threat to the public in relation to this matter, but as ever, we would ask that people remain vigilant and contact police with any concerns.”