Manchester Mosque Incident: Police Search After Armed Men Enter During Ramadan Prayers
Police have launched a major search operation following a disturbing incident at Manchester Central Mosque, where two men armed with weapons entered the building during Ramadan prayers. The event has prompted heightened security measures and raised serious concerns about Islamophobic attacks in the community.
Details of the Incident
On Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at approximately 8:30 PM, two males entered Manchester Central Mosque on Upper Park Road in Victoria Park. According to mosque volunteers, the pair were carrying bags, with one believed to contain an axe and the other holding a hammer and a knife. The incident occurred during Taraweeh prayers, a significant time of worship in the holy month of Ramadan.
Volunteers at the mosque quickly spotted the suspicious items, with one bag containing an axe being placed in the main hall. One of the suspects was taken to a separate room by volunteers, where a search allegedly revealed multiple weapons, including a hammer and a knife. Police were immediately called to the scene.
Police Response and Arrest
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) responded swiftly, with officers descending on the mosque. A man in his 40s was arrested at the scene on suspicion of carrying an offensive weapon and possession of class B drugs. He has been taken into custody for questioning. However, a second suspect fled and remains at large, prompting an ongoing police search.
Superintendent Simon Nasim of the City of Manchester Central district stated that no threats were made and no one was injured during the incident. He emphasized that there is no place for weapons on the streets and that police are committed to ensuring communities feel safe to worship in peace.
Community Concerns and Safety Measures
In the wake of the incident, Manchester Central Mosque has issued a statement expressing deep concern over what it describes as an increase in Islamophobic incidents. The mosque highlighted that the Muslim community in the UK has faced a notable rise in threats and hostility in recent years, calling for greater resources to address this growing risk.
To enhance safety, the mosque has advised congregants to travel in groups where possible and to ensure children are not left unattended. Police patrols in the area have been stepped up, and residents are urged to remain vigilant while attending the mosque. The mosque praised the swift actions of its volunteers, noting that their intervention helped prevent potentially more serious consequences.
Ongoing Investigation
GMP is continuing its investigation into the incident, with all relevant information and CCTV footage from the mosque handed over to the police. Authorities are appealing to the public for assistance in tracing the second suspect. Witnesses are encouraged to contact police on 101, via the LiveChat function on the GMP website, or anonymously through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
The incident underscores broader issues of community safety and religious tolerance, with local leaders and law enforcement working to reassure the public and prevent future occurrences.
