Heightened police patrols across Devon after Manchester terror attack

Devon and Cornwall Police have increased patrols and outreach in Jewish communities across the region following a terror attack at a synagogue in Manchester.

Assistant Chief Constable Jim Pearce issued a statement after the attack on Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue earlier today (Friday 3 October), saying officers are taking action locally to reassure communities in the South West.

He said: "Following the horrific attack on Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Manchester this morning, we wish to reassure our communities by informing you of the actions we have taken within Devon and Cornwall today. Our Neighbourhood Policing Teams alongside our Diverse Communities Teams have reached out to the Synagogues and the Jewish communities across Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly to offer reassurance and support.

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“Additional high visibility patrols are being carried out in multiple areas including the Synagogues within our communities. These will continue over the coming days. We are also working with our partner agencies to ensure that together we offer support to the Jewish community in any way we can. Our thoughts and sympathies are with the victims in Manchester, their loved ones and the wider Jewish community."

Police confirmed that patrols will remain in place around places of worship in Devon and Cornwall in the coming days, and that officers are working closely with partner agencies to provide support where needed.