Men accused of machine gun terrorism in north-west England

Greater Manchester Police has released an update following the first appearance of three suspects charged with terrorism offences.

Two of the men have been accused of a machine gun terrorism plot to attack Jewish communities, which a third man faces allegations of failing to disclose information about an act of terrorism. 

Assistant Chief Constable Rob Potts, who holds responsibility for counter terrorism policing in the north west, said: “Today’s first court appearance has outlined some concerning and distressing details about a suspected terrorist plot that we allege was being planned by suspects from Greater Manchester.

“Firstly, we know how significant the impact of this will be. Particularly for our Jewish community in Greater Manchester and across the country.

He said they have worked closely with the Community Security Trust, community groups and key stakeholders prior to today’s hearing, and will continue to update them and support them throughout the case.

He said: “The wider public will understandably be alarmed too.

“Our preventative action has followed a long-running and carefully-managed investigation.

“We are committed to making sure all communities are safe, and we do not currently believe there is any wider risk directly connected to this case."

Potts added tear local officers will "continue to listen and act on concerns alongside partners to protect the public."

He said: "This is a reminder that the threat of terrorism always remains, but also of how hard our specialist officers are working to prevent our communities from suffering harm."

Amanda Bomsztyk, Northern Regional Director of the Community Security Trust said:

“These are very serious allegations of a plan to commit a terrorist attack against British Jews at a time of record antisemitic hate crime levels. This is one of a number of recent and ongoing cases that demonstrate why the Jewish community needs such extensive security measures and why our continuing partnership with police and government is so vital.

“CST thanks Greater Manchester Police and other agencies for their work in this case, and we will continue to work closely with police to provide reassurance and protection for the Jewish community. We urge everyone in the community to continue as normal, remain alert and report any antisemitism or suspicious activity at Jewish locations to CST and to the police.”