A Manchester man has been arrested after a disturbing incident outside a city synagogue where he allegedly attempted to preach the Quran to young children before violently assaulting their father.
The Confrontation Outside the Synagogue
The alarming episode unfolded on Wilbraham Road in Manchester's Fallowfield area, where the 34-year-old suspect approached a group of children outside a synagogue. Witnesses reported the man began reading from the Islamic holy text to the young worshippers, causing immediate concern among parents and community members.
Violent Escalation
When a 52-year-old father intervened to protect the children, the situation turned violent. The suspect allegedly punched the parent multiple times in the face before fleeing the scene. The victim sustained facial injuries during the assault but did not require hospital treatment.
Police Response and Investigation
Greater Manchester Police responded swiftly to the incident, arresting a suspect nearby. A spokesperson confirmed the force is treating the attack as a religiously motivated hate crime and has increased patrols in the area to reassure the local community.
Community Impact
Jewish community leaders have expressed deep concern about the targeting of children outside a place of worship. The incident has sparked conversations about religious tolerance and safety measures around community institutions across Manchester.
Police continue to investigate the full circumstances surrounding the attack and have appealed for any witnesses to come forward with additional information.
