West Midlands Police are increasing patrols at “key Jewish locations” across Birmingham and Solihull to reassure the community following a terrorism plot in Manchester. The move comes after two men were arrested on suspicion of planning a terrorist plot to target the Jewish community in Manchester ahead of Yom Kippur.
More officers will be visible across the Jewish High Holy Days, beginning with Sukkot on September 25 and continuing until Simchat Torah, which ends on October 4. The increased patrols are a direct response to concerns raised within the local Jewish community, according to the force.
Armed and unarmed officers deployed
Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Andy Parsons said: “We understand that the Jewish community will be concerned following events over recent days, especially during this important time.
“We do not believe there to be any ongoing threat to the public in relation to this, but we would ask people as always to remain vigilant and contact us with any concerns.”
The patrols will include both armed and unarmed officers, supported by specialist units and engagement staff who will speak with communities alongside partners. Additional security measures that are not visible to the public will also be in place.
Force committed to safety
Parsons emphasised the force’s commitment to ensuring the West Midlands is a “safe place”. He added: “We have a dedicated operation to protect local Jewish communities throughout the holy period so people can expect to see an increased police presence near synagogues and the local areas during this time.”
“We recognise and understand this concern and I want to make it absolutely clear that our work to provide as much visibility and security as we can through additional activity remains very much ongoing. We will keep communities safe, deter intimidation, and enforce the law.”
Patrols and public vigilance
Local officers will provide continued visibility and security by patrolling streets on foot and engaging with members of the public. The force asks anyone who witnesses suspicious or criminal activity to report it by calling 999.
