• Source:JND
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A shocking video has emerged showing armed police officers warning the public to stay away during a terrorist attack outside the Heaton Park Synagogue in north Manchester on Thursday morning. In the clip, one officer is heard shouting: “Everybody else, get back. If you’re not involved, move back, get away… he has a bomb, go away.”

The incident occurred shortly after 9:30 am local time during Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. Greater Manchester Police (GMP) reported that a man drove a car into pedestrians before stabbing a victim. Armed officers soon responded and shot him within minutes. A device worn by the suspect, initially thought to be an explosive, was later confirmed to be “not viable.”

Operation Plato Declared

Authorities immediately declared Operation Plato, the national protocol for responding to marauding terrorist attacks. Bomb disposal teams were dispatched to assess the scene, while the North West Ambulance Service declared a major incident, sending extra paramedics in protective gear. Early reports indicated four injured, though two of the victims later succumbed to their injuries, according to police.

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Eyewitness Accounts

Chava Lewin, a resident near the synagogue, described hearing a loud bang, initially thinking it was a firework. Her husband ran inside, alerting her that a “terrorist attack” was underway. Video footage shows two armed officers aiming at the suspect as he crouched on the ground before gunshots were fired, ending the immediate threat. 

Prime Minister Keir Starmer cut short a trip to Denmark to chair an emergency COBRA meeting. Condemning the attack, he said, “I’m appalled by the attack at a synagogue in Crumpsall. The fact that this has taken place on Yom Kippur makes it all the more horrific. My thoughts are with the loved ones of all those affected, and my thanks go to the emergency services and all the first responders.”

King Charles released a statement in which he stated he was "deeply shocked and saddened" by the attack. London Mayor Sadiq Khan called the attack incredibly worrying. Khan vowed increased police patrols surrounding synagogues. "People should feel able to pursue their faith without fear knowing they are safe," he said.

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham called for calm after he described the attack as a serious incident. He further explained that violence had escalated in Manchester before being neutralised by police officers. He also praised the police officers who responded swiftly and urged citizens to stay away from the area.

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GMP confirmed that the attacker was shot dead by officers. The major incident status remains as investigations are under way. Officials credited the "instant bravery" of staff and worshipers in the synagogue for preventing the attacker from being able to get inside the main prayer hall, which prevented further tragedy