Police have issued an appeal for information after a man was arrested in connection with the Heaton Park synagogue attack after arriving on an inbound flight at Manchester Airport.
A 31-year-old was arrested earlier on Thursday on suspicion of commission, preparation and instigation of acts of terrorism, according to Greater Manchester Police.
He is the seventh person to be arrested in connection with the terrorist attack at the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Crumpsall, Manchester, on 2 October.
Worshippers Melvin Cravitz and Adrian Daulby were killed after Jihad Al-Shamie, a Syrian-born UK citizen, drove his Kia Picanto into the gates of the synagogue and then began attacking with a knife, wearing a fake suicide belt.
Terrorist Al-Shamie made a call to the police during the attack, where he pledged allegiance to the Islamic State. The 35-year-old perpetrator was shot dead by armed police.
Three other men were treated in hospital for serious injuries following the attack, which led to Salford Royal Hospital being temporarily locked down and saw the police presence in Jewish communities across Salford stepped up.
Both men were laid to rest in Salford with Daulby – described as a “hero” who attempted to barricade the synagogue door and protect worshippers from the attack – buried at Agecroft Jewish Cemetery.
Melvin Cravitz, 66, was honoured at a funeral service in Pendlebury.
Assistant Chief Constable Rob Potts, who holds operational responsibility for Counter Terrorism Policing North West, 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 taken 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 enquiries to please come forward.
“We are also still seeking to identify and speak to anyone who was present at the time of the incident or the immediate aftermath so that we can ensure they have access to all the welfare support options that are available to witnesses.”
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