Man arrested after ‘axe carried into Manchester Central Mosque’

LocalPolitics
25 Feb 2026 • 10:38 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

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  • A man was arrested after allegedly entering Manchester Central Mosque during Ramadan prayers on Tuesday evening carrying multiple weapons, including an axe, hammer, and knife.
  • Mosque volunteers spotted a suspicious bag and escorted the man, a white male in his 40s, to a separate room where the weapons were discovered before police were called.
  • The suspect was arrested on suspicion of carrying an offensive weapon and possession of class B drugs, and remains in custody, while Greater Manchester Police are seeking a second man who accompanied him.
  • Greater Manchester Police confirmed no one was injured and stated they are not treating the incident as terror-related, though an increased police presence is in the area.
  • Sir Keir Starmer expressed concern for Muslim communities, and the mosque's statement highlighted a rise in Islamophobic incidents, praising volunteers for their swift actions.

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