Second suspect arrested after man with axe reportedly entered Manchester mosque

The Guardian World

by Raphael Boyd

February 26, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

A second suspect has been arrested in connection with an incident where a man reportedly entered Manchester Central Mosque armed with an axe and a knife. The first suspect, a man in his 40s carrying weapons, was apprehended at the scene on Tuesday. Greater Manchester police later announced the arrest of a second individual, a man in his 20s, on Thursday. He was taken into custody on suspicion of conspiracy to commit a section 18 assault, which involves causing serious harm with intent. The incident occurred at Manchester Central Mosque, sparking concerns about security and safety in places of worship. The suspect arrested earlier this week was initially reported to be carrying weapons, though no injuries were reported during the encounter. Police have not disclosed further details about the suspects' identities or their potential motives. This case comes amid heightened tensions over targeted attacks on religious sites globally. Section 18 assault is a severe charge under UK law, implying that the suspect may have intended to cause serious bodily harm. The arrest of the second individual highlights the ongoing investigation's complexity and the authorities' commitment to pursuing all leads. Greater Manchester Police have emphasized their dedication to ensuring public safety and preventing similar incidents in the future. The case has drawn significant attention both locally and internationally, particularly given the recent rise in targeted attacks on places of worship. It underscores the broader challenges faced

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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/26/2026