A major police manhunt has been launched following a deeply concerning incident at a prominent mosque in Manchester, where two men allegedly entered the premises armed with dangerous weapons during evening Ramadan prayers. The event has heightened fears within the local Muslim community and prompted an urgent security response from authorities.
Incident Details and Immediate Response
According to reports, the incident occurred at Manchester Central Mosque, located in the Rusholme area, on the evening of February 24, 2026, at approximately 8:30 PM. Worshippers were engaged in Taraweeh prayers, a significant nightly observance during the holy month of Ramadan, when the two men were spotted entering the building. They were reportedly carrying bags, with one bag believed to contain an axe and the other a hammer and a knife.
Alert attendees managed to intercept one of the men as he entered the place of worship. They took him into a separate room where they discovered the bag filled with weapons. Greater Manchester Police were swiftly called to the scene and arrived promptly, arresting a man in his 40s on suspicion of carrying an offensive weapon and possession of class B drugs. He was taken into custody for questioning.
Ongoing Investigation and Community Impact
While one suspect is in custody, a search is actively underway for the second man. Police have urged anyone with information to come forward immediately. Authorities have confirmed that, fortunately, no threats were made during the incident and nobody was injured. However, the event has been described as a serious security incident by the mosque's management.
In response, there is now an increased police presence in the Rusholme area. Attendees at the mosque have been advised to remain vigilant, to travel in groups where possible, and to ensure children are not left unattended. Superintendent Simon Nasim of the City of Manchester Central district stated, "There's no place for weapons on our streets and we are committed to ensure all our communities feel safe to worship in peace and go about their daily lives without fear."
Community Statement and Broader Concerns
A formal statement from Manchester Central Mosque highlighted the gravity of the situation. It read, "The Muslim community in the UK has experienced a notable rise in threats and hostility over recent years. The increase in Islamophobic incidents is a serious concern, and greater resources are urgently needed to address this growing and real risk." The mosque praised the swift actions of its volunteers, noting that their intervention was crucial in containing the situation and preventing potentially more serious consequences.
The mosque has fully cooperated with the police investigation, providing all relevant information and CCTV footage. The statement further advised congregants to continue exercising caution and to maintain communication with local law enforcement officers who are patrolling the area.
This incident underscores ongoing tensions and security challenges faced by religious communities, particularly during significant periods of worship. The police investigation continues as efforts to locate the second suspect intensify.
