Man Arrested Over Manchester Synagogue Terror Attack

Published: 28 November 2025 Friday. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online

A 31-year-old man has been arrested at Manchester Airport on suspicion of terror offences in connection with the synagogue attack in the city earlier this year, police confirmed. The arrest brings the total number of people detained over the incident to seven.

The attack, which occurred on 2 October at the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue, claimed the lives of Adrian Daulby and Melvin Cravitz. Three other men were seriously injured during the assault carried out by Jihad Al-Shamie, who was subsequently shot dead by police.

Greater Manchester Police said the 31-year-old suspect was apprehended on an inbound flight and is being investigated for commission, preparation, and instigation of acts of terrorism. Five other individuals previously arrested have been released without charge, while a 30-year-old remains on bail following an arrest on 9 October for failing to disclose information under the Terrorism Act.

Inquest proceedings opened last month revealed the sequence of events during the attack. Al-Shamie drove his car into a security guard stationed outside the synagogue as congregants gathered for Yom Kippur. He then attacked Mr Cravitz with a knife. Meanwhile, congregants inside, including Mr Daulby, managed to hold the doors closed as Al-Shamie attempted to force his way inside. During the armed police intervention, a stray bullet penetrated the synagogue door, fatally striking Mr Daulby in the chest.

Assistant Chief Constable Rob Potts of Counter Terrorism Policing North West stated that the families of Mr Cravitz and Mr Daulby, along with those who were injured, have been informed of the latest arrest. He reiterated that the investigation is ongoing and appealed for witnesses or anyone with relevant information to come forward. Police are also seeking to identify anyone present at or near the scene to ensure access to appropriate welfare support.

Rabbi Daniel Walker, who alongside congregants helped secure the doors during the attack, reflected on the impact of the tragedy. He described the empty seats of Mr Daulby and Mr Cravitz as a constant reminder of the lives lost. He praised both men for their dignity, kindness, and dedication to family and community. “They were both very, very special men,” he said, highlighting the lasting void their deaths have left in the congregation.

The synagogue attack has underscored the ongoing threat of extremist violence in the UK and has prompted authorities to maintain heightened security and vigilance across religious and community sites. Police continue to review CCTV footage, interview witnesses, and gather evidence to ensure that those responsible are held accountable. The investigation remains active, and authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to bringing all involved to justice.

This latest arrest reflects the careful coordination between counter-terrorism units and border security to track individuals connected to terrorist activities. It also illustrates the challenges faced by law enforcement in preventing extremist acts and the importance of community cooperation in safeguarding public safety.

As the legal process unfolds, families and the community continue to grapple with the emotional aftermath of the attack. Support services remain available to victims, witnesses, and families affected by the tragedy, with authorities emphasizing the importance of mental health and community resilience in the recovery process.

The Manchester synagogue attack remains one of the most significant terror incidents in the region in recent years. It has prompted a review of synagogue security protocols and emergency response measures to better protect congregations during high-risk periods, particularly during religious observances.