Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor, the national head of counter-terrorism has said on Thursday afternoon the attack at the synagogue in Manchester “is a terrorist incident.”
The Assistant Commissioner said speaking outside New Scotland Yard in London that they have made two arrests.
Taylor said, “Based on what we know, counterterrorism policing has declared this is a terrorist incident.”
He added their specialist officers are “leading the investigation into what happened” on Thursday morning.
The Assistant Commissioner said they believe they know the identity of the attacker, however, “for safety reasons at the scene, we’re unable to confirm at this stage.”
Taylor added, “We will ensure every piece of intelligence and line of inquiry is interrogated.
“We’re working closely with the security services to ensure we have a full intelligence picture in the coming days and weeks.”
He is urging everyone to remain “vigilant” and anything that “doesn’t feel right” should be reported to the police, the police has confirmed the attacker was shot dead.
Greater Manchester Police said that the attacker has been killed, two people died in the attack and three others remain in hospital with serious condition.
They said, “There is no risk to the public and ongoing activity in relation to this major incident can be expected as we continue our enquiries.
“We can confirm three people have died, including the offender, who was shot by GMP Firearms officers.”
Chief Constable Sir Stephen Watson said in Crumpsall his thoughts are with the families who have been affected by Thursday’s “horrific incident.”
“We believe that the identity of the offender has been established, but until we are certain of this fact, it is premature to set out this detail at this juncture.”
He added, “Following a rapid response, armed officers from Greater Manchester Police intercepted the offender and he was fatally shot by officers within seven minutes of the original call.”
“There were a large number of worshippers attending the synagogue at the time of this attack, but thanks to the immediate bravery of security staff and the worshippers inside, as well as the fast response of the police, the attacker was prevented from gaining access.”
One of the SAS “Blue Thunder” helicopters was seen flying overhead of the synagogue.
