Greater Manchester has been shaken by two connected firearms incidents targeting religious buildings, prompting a major police investigation and calls for community unity.
Timeline of Terror
According to authorities, the disturbing sequence began around 10:15 PM on Monday when police received reports of a firearms discharge at a mosque on Barlow Street in Manchester's Cheetham Hill area. Witnesses reported hearing loud bangs and seeing individuals fleeing the scene.
Just over an hour later, at approximately 11:30 PM, officers were called to a similar incident at St Alban's Church in Cheetwood, where evidence confirmed another firearms discharge had occurred.
Police Response and Community Impact
Detective Superintendent Gareth Parkin confirmed the incidents are being treated as connected, stating: "We believe these attacks are linked and are pursuing several strong lines of enquiry. Firearms were discharged at both locations, and we're working to establish the full circumstances."
Local residents expressed shock and concern, with one worshipper describing the atmosphere as "deeply unsettling for our community." Community leaders from both religious institutions have been working closely with police to maintain calm.
Heightened Security Measures
In response to the attacks, Greater Manchester Police have:
- Increased patrols around religious buildings across the city
- Established dedicated investigation teams
- Appealed for witnesses and dashcam footage
- Engaged with community leaders to prevent retaliation
Police have urged anyone with information to come forward immediately, emphasizing that attacks on places of worship will not be tolerated in Manchester's diverse communities.
