GMP Engage With Jewish Community As Three Terror Suspects Set To Face Trial Next Year

Published by Robert L Senior Reporter on Friday, 24th May 2024, at 22:50hrs

Greater Manchester Police have been engaging with the Jewish community ahead of a second court appearance for three suspects charged with terrorism offences.

Greater Manchester Police said in a social media update,

“We’ve been engaging with the Jewish community ahead of today’s second court appearance for the men accused of plotting an alleged attack on Jews in Greater Manchester.

On Thursday (23 May) evening, Chief Inspector Mike Tachauer, chair of our Jewish Police Association, led the latest Jewish Community Forum at Sedgley Park that was attended by members of the local Jewish community.

The forum is a regular opportunity for us to engage directly with the community and address any concerns they may have. There will be further meetings on 20 June, 18 July, and 15 August.

It is one of the many Forums that is hosted by our staff networks across GM, which includes other faith forums – including an interfaith group – and forums for our LGBTQ+ community and disability groups, to name a few.

Throughout this case, we will be working with community groups and key local stakeholders to ensure that any concerns are addressed.

Our priority is making sure all communities in GM are safe and feel safe.

Our officers are there to be approached and spoken to should you have any concerns.

Should you have any suspicions or concerns, speak to our officers or call 101. Call 999 in an emergency.

Appearing at the Old Bailey in London today, Friday, 24th May, Walid Saadoui, 36, and Amar Hussein, 50, were both charged with the preparation of terrorist acts between December 2023 and May this year.

The offences relate to the purchase of firearms, conducting reconnaissance and making attack plans, the court heard how it’s alleged the suspects had planned to carry out an IS-style terror attack against members of the Jewish community,  law enforcement and military personnel in the North West of England, using automatic weapons to inflict maximum fatalities

A third man, Bilel Saadaoui, 35, was charged with failing to disclose information about an act of terrorism.

All three men who are currently remanded in custody appeared before Judge Jeremy Baker via video link, who has set a trial date for October 2025.