**
In a significant development following the tragic events of October 2, 2025, a man has been charged in relation to the terrorist attack on the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation synagogue, which resulted in the deaths of two worshippers. The attack, carried out by Jihad Al-Shamie, 35, who drove a vehicle into the synagogue’s gates before launching a knife assault, has left a lasting impact on the local community.
The Attack Unfolds
The horrific incident unfolded when Al-Shamie, a Syrian-born British citizen, rammed his vehicle into the synagogue’s entrance before disembarking and attacking congregants while wearing a simulated suicide belt. The attack claimed the lives of Melvin Cravitz and Adrian Daulby, two dedicated members of the Jewish community. In addition to the fatalities, three other worshippers sustained serious injuries and were subsequently hospitalised; fortunately, all have since been released.
Charges Filed Against a Key Suspect
In a recent announcement, Counter Terrorism Policing North West confirmed that Hekmat Omar Ali Hakim, a 49-year-old Iraqi national residing on St. James Road in Higher Broughton, has been charged with failing to disclose information pertaining to terrorist activity, under Section 38b of the Terrorism Act 2000. This charge is believed to be linked directly to the events surrounding the synagogue attack.
Hakim is currently in custody and is scheduled to appear before Westminster Magistrates’ Court. A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police emphasised the importance of this development in the ongoing investigation.
Ongoing Investigations and Community Support
Assistant Chief Constable Rob Potts, who oversees operational duties for Counter Terrorism Policing North West, expressed the police’s unwavering commitment to uncovering the full scope of the attack. In a statement, he said, “This charge is directly related to the terrorist attack which took place at the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue last October. My thoughts are with all those affected by the attack, particularly the bereaved loved ones and survivors.”
The police have been in regular contact with those impacted by the attack, providing support to the victims’ families and others affected. Potts noted that the charge against Hakim is the result of diligent investigative work alongside the Crown Prosecution Service, underlining the authorities’ determination to hold all responsible parties accountable.
Community Reactions and Continued Vigilance
The Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation and the wider Manchester community have been grappling with the aftermath of the attack. Tributes have poured in for the deceased worshippers, with vigils and memorials highlighting the community’s resilience and solidarity in the face of such violence.
Local leaders and community members have called for heightened vigilance and support for all those