A swift response from worshippers at Manchester Central Mosque prevented a potentially dangerous situation on Tuesday evening when two armed individuals entered the religious premises during late prayers. According to authorities, congregants discovered an axe, knife, and hammer in a large bag carried by one suspect before detaining him until police arrival.
Greater Manchester Police confirmed the arrest of a man in his 40s on suspicion of carrying an offensive weapon following reports of suspicious activity at the mosque. Police spokesperson Simon Nasim reported that while one individual was successfully apprehended, a second suspect managed to leave the premises before officers arrived and remains at large.
The incident unfolded during evening worship sessions when attentive congregants noticed the suspicious behavior of the two men. Upon confrontation and discovery of the weapons, worshippers restrained one suspect in a secure room within the mosque complex while alerting authorities. Police emphasized that despite the alarming nature of the incident, no direct threats were made and no injuries occurred.
In response to the event, Greater Manchester Police have intensified patrols in the surrounding area as investigations continue. Authorities reiterated their commitment to community safety, with Nasim stating: ‘There’s no place for weapons on our streets and we are committed to ensure all our communities feel safe to worship in peace.’
Mosque representatives praised the quick thinking and responsible actions of their congregants, while also noting that British Muslims have faced increasing threats and hostility in recent years. The investigation continues as police work to locate the second suspect involved in Tuesday’s incident.