British counterterrorism police say they have disrupted a suspected terrorist plot targeting the Jewish community in Manchester during the Jewish High Holy Days.
Authorities announced September 22 that two men in their 30s had been arrested at an address in central Manchester as part of what police described as a long-running counterterrorism investigation.
The arrests took place while Jewish communities were observing Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement and the holiest day on the Jewish calendar.
Police also conducted searches at locations in Salford and Liverpool as part of the investigation.
Vicki Evans, senior national coordinator for counterterrorism policing, said investigators believe the operation disrupted a plot targeting the Jewish community in the Manchester area.
The two suspects were transferred to London and remained in police custody while investigators continued their work. Authorities obtained warrants allowing them to remain in custody until September 27.
Police said they did not believe there was an ongoing threat to the public. Security surrounding Jewish communities, however, has been increased during the Jewish High Holy Days.
The Community Security Trust, a British organization that monitors antisemitism and provides security support to Jewish communities, expressed concern about the suspected plot.
The arrests come close to the anniversary of the deadly 2025 attack at Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Manchester, where two Jewish worshippers were killed during Yom Kippur.
Counterterrorism officers continue to investigate the suspected plot while working with local police and community organizations.
The case comes amid continuing concerns about antisemitic threats and the security of Jewish communities during religious observances.
