Greater Manchester Police have launched an urgent manhunt following a disturbing daylight attack on a Jewish man in Salford that community leaders are describing as a targeted antisemitic incident.
The alarming assault occurred on Sunday afternoon near the busy junction of Great Clowes Street and Lower Broughton Road, sending shockwaves through the local Jewish community.
Violent Confrontation in Broad Daylight
According to police reports and witness statements, the victim was driving through the area when another vehicle deliberately blocked his path. Two men emerged from the other car and approached the Jewish man's vehicle in what appears to have been a premeditated confrontation.
The situation rapidly escalated when one of the suspects physically assaulted the driver through his open window, leaving the victim shaken but not seriously injured.
Vehicle Vandalised in Hate-Fuelled Attack
As the victim managed to drive away from the scene, the perpetrators pursued him briefly before he could make his escape. The incident took an even more sinister turn when it was discovered that the suspects had vandalised the victim's vehicle during the confrontation.
"This appears to be a targeted attack on a member of our Jewish community," confirmed a spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police. "We are treating this with the utmost seriousness and are pursuing multiple lines of enquiry."
Community Security Trust Issues Warning
The Community Security Trust (CST), the official organisation responsible for protecting British Jews from antisemitism, has been working closely with police following the incident.
Mark Gardner, Chief Executive of CST, stated: "This violent attack on a Jewish man going about his daily business is deeply concerning. We're supporting the victim and working with Greater Manchester Police to ensure those responsible are identified and prosecuted."
The CST has advised local Jewish communities to remain vigilant while continuing with their normal daily activities.
Police Appeal for Witnesses
Investigators are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has dashcam footage from the area around 2:30 PM on Sunday to come forward immediately.
Detective Inspector James Brown of GMP's Salford division emphasised: "Hate crimes of any nature will not be tolerated in our communities. We have dedicated officers reviewing CCTV from the area and conducting house-to-house enquiries."
The police have confirmed they are treating this as a racially aggravated offence and are exploring potential connections to other recent incidents in the area.
