Greater Manchester Police Apologize for Overlooking Critical Evidence in Synagogue Attacker’s Phones

Constantvpn.com – A senior police official has publicly apologized after admitting that crucial mobile devices belonging to the Manchester synagogue attacker were seized but never examined. Jihad Al-Shamie, aged 35, was already on bail for a suspected rape offense when he launched the violent assault on Heaton Park Synagogue located in Crumpsall on October 2, 2025. During this incident, two Jewish men were tragically killed. The oversight represents a significant failure in evidence handling that could have prevented the tragedy.

Despite his devices being confiscated following arrests in both February and September, the contents were not analyzed until after the attack. These phones held significant proof of his radicalized beliefs. Greater Manchester Police Chief Constable Sir Stephen Watson stated he was “deeply sorry” for the oversight. He acknowledged that “the information contained within these devices would have inspired further investigative action” had it been reviewed sooner. This admission highlights how police failed to check synagogue attacker’s phones despite having them in custody.

Timeline of Missed Opportunities

Sir Stephen explained that the conclusion of legal proceedings against Mohammad Bashir, who received a life sentence with a minimum of 17 years for a separate plot involving Al-Shamie, allowed for new information sharing. He noted: “In conducting an internal review, it became apparent that GMP had seized Al-Shamie’s mobile devices, at the point of each arrest.” The chief constable emphasized that “The significance of the data contents of these devices was substantial in respect of evidencing an extremist mindset.”

The timeline reveals Al-Shamie was first detained on February 13, 2025, for allegedly violating a non-molestation order. Subsequently, he was arrested again on September 21, 2025, concerning a rape suspicion. Regrettably, the importance of the digital evidence was not recognized before the October 2 attack. Sir Stephen remarked: “Regrettably, I can confirm that the significance of the information stored on Al-Shamie’s devices was not realised as they had not been examined before the attack took place on the 2 October 2025.”

Victims and the Attack

Melvin Cravitz and Adrian Daulby were among those murdered when Al-Shamie, hailing from Prestwich, rammed his Kia Picanto into the synagogue gates. He then proceeded to stab worshippers who had gathered for Yom Kippur, the most sacred day in the Jewish calendar. Al-Shamie, who was equipped with a fake suicide belt, was eventually shot dead by responding officers. The victims’ families have since received updates on the ongoing investigation into how police failed to check synagogue attacker’s phones.

Sir Stephen added that there was “little doubt” the extremist messages found on the phones would have prompted additional inquiries. He expressed personal regret, stating: “I am disappointed at the prospect of adding to the distress of all of those affected by the terrible events last October.” The chief constable emphasized that lessons would be learned from this failure to properly examine critical evidence.

Ongoing Investigations

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has confirmed it is reviewing “all previous contact between Greater Manchester Police and Jihad Al-Shamie prior to the terror attack on 2 October 2025.” This review encompasses how police handled reports of crimes committed by Al-Shamie. Currently, one officer faces potential misconduct allegations regarding their management of rape and other sexual offense claims against him.

Regarding disciplinary outcomes, an IOPC spokesperson clarified: “This does not necessarily mean that disciplinary proceedings will follow. This decision will be made on conclusion of the investigation.” The watchdog also noted it was informed about additional matters related to Al-Shamie’s previous encounters with law enforcement. The comprehensive review aims to determine whether better evidence handling could have prevented the synagogue attack.

“The information contained within these devices would have inspired further investigative action” – Sir Stephen Watson, Chief Constable of Greater Manchester Police