Manchester Synagogue Attack Leaves Two Dead, Attacker Killed; Explosive belt Suspected
Manchester, England – November 2, 2023 – A knife attack outside an Orthodox synagogue in Manchester today has left two people dead and at least four injured, including the attacker who was shot by police. The incident occurred on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in Judaism, prompting widespread shock and condemnation.
Police responded to reports of an assault near the synagogue and quickly engaged the attacker, who was subsequently killed. Authorities are investigating the motive behind the attack, wich remains unclear.
“A large number of faithful was praying in the synagogue at the time of the episode,” investigators stated, adding that those inside were secured until the area was deemed safe and than evacuated.
A video circulating online captured a police officer shouting, “Stay away, he has a bomb, get away!” This prompted a meaningful response from bomb disposal units, who arrived on scene with a truck equipped to neutralize potential explosives. While not yet officially confirmed, investigators are treating the possibility of an explosive belt worn by the attacker as credible. The video shows a bald, bearded man with what appear to be white wraps hanging from his belt.
British Premier Keir starmer has cut short his attendance at a pan-European summit in Copenhagen to return to London and oversee the examination. He convened an emergency meeting of the Cobra commitee, bringing together ministers, investigative leaders, and intelligence services.
King Charles III and Queen Camilla expressed their “deeply shocked and saddened” reaction to the attack, emphasizing the meaning of the timing – occurring on Yom Kippur. “Our thoughts and prayers are for those who have been involved in this horrible episode,” they said in a statement released by Buckingham Palace, also praising the swift response of emergency services.
The attack, which took place at an Orthodox Askhenazite synagogue, is being closely monitored by British authorities. Further updates will be provided as the investigation unfolds.
(Copyright Ansa – Reserved reproduction)
