Manchester Police Chief Apologises After Failing to Examine Synagogue Attacker’s Mobile Devices
Samael.lol – A senior police official in Greater Manchester has issued a heartfelt apology after acknowledging that crucial mobile phones belonging to the synagogue attacker were confiscated on two separate occasions yet never properly reviewed before the deadly assault. Sir Stephen Watson, the Chief Constable of Greater Manchester Police, expressed his profound regret over the oversight that may have altered the course of events leading up to the October 2025 tragedy.
The Attack and Its Victims
Jihad Al-Shamie, aged 35, launched a devastating car and knife attack against Heaton Park Synagogue located in the Crumpsall district of Manchester on October 2, 2025. The assault occurred while congregants were gathered to observe Yom Kippur, which stands as the most sacred day in the Jewish calendar. Tragically, two worshippers lost their lives during the incident: Melvin Cravitz and Adrian Daulby. Al-Shamie, who had driven his Kia Picanto vehicle into the synagogue gates, proceeded to attack people with a knife while wearing what appeared to be a suicide belt. He was ultimately killed by police officers who responded to the scene with gunfire.
Missed Opportunities: The Unexamined Phones
What emerged during the internal review was particularly concerning. Al-Shamie’s mobile devices had been seized by police at the time of each arrest—first in February 2025 and again in September 2025—yet neither device was analysed before the October attack. The February arrest related to suspicion of breaching a non-molestation order, while the September arrest concerned allegations of rape. At the time of the synagogue attack, Al-Shamie was already on bail for the alleged rape offence.
“The significance of the data contents of these devices was substantial in respect of evidencing an extremist mindset,” Sir Stephen Watson explained during his statement.
The Chief Constable further noted that the information recovered from these phones would likely have prompted additional investigative measures had they been examined in a timely manner.
Connection to Mohammad Bashir
Complicating matters further was the case of Mohammad Bashir, who had already been sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 17 years for plotting a separate attack alongside Al-Shamie targeting the UK’s Defence Academy in Shrivenham. Court proceedings at Manchester Crown Court revealed that the pair had been actively discussing their extremist perspectives through WhatsApp conversations, including preparations for what they described as a “war.” Footage presented to the court captured the moment both men discussed their desire to become martyrs.
“In conducting an internal review, it became apparent that GMP had seized Al-Shamie’s mobile devices, at the point of each arrest,” Sir Stephen stated. “I am disappointed at the prospect of adding to the distress of all of those affected by the terrible events last October. For this, I am deeply sorry.”
IOPC Investigation Underway
The Independent Office for Police Conduct has confirmed it is examining all previous interactions between Greater Manchester Police and Al-Shamie prior to the terror attack. This comprehensive investigation encompasses not only the handling of the unexamined phones but also the police response to various crime reports involving Al-Shamie. One officer is currently facing potential misconduct allegations specifically related to how rape and other sexual offence allegations against Al-Shamie were managed.
The IOPC spokesperson clarified that this investigation does not automatically guarantee disciplinary action, noting that such a determination would be made once the inquiry concludes. The watchdog also indicated it would review the information recovered from Al-Shamie’s devices, which GMP brought to their attention in the previous week.
Looking Ahead: Inquests and Accountability
The formal inquests into the deaths of Cravitz and Daulby are scheduled to commence in spring 2027. These proceedings will examine multiple dimensions of the tragedy, including Al-Shamie’s radicalisation process and whether preventive measures could have averted the attack. Sir Stephen Watson emphasised that the inquests would scrutinise “all aspects of the attack” comprehensively.
The Chief Constable acknowledged that it falls to both the IOPC and the coroner to assess the full impact of police failing to review Al-Shamie’s mobile device contents before the October 2025 attack. Sir Stephen expressed confidence that the extremist messages contained on the phones would undoubtedly have triggered further investigation, stating there was “little doubt” about this outcome.
As the community continues to heal from this devastating event, the ongoing investigations serve as a critical mechanism for ensuring transparency and accountability in how police services handle intelligence and evidence in cases involving potential threats to public safety.
