A senior police chief has apologised after admitting mobile devices seized from the Manchester synagogue attacker were not examined before the fatal attack.

Jihad Al-Shamie, 35, was on bail for an alleged rape when he carried out the assault on Heaton Park Synagogue in Crumpsall on 2 October 2025, killing two Jewish men.His phones, containing evidence of extremist views, were seized during arrests in February and September 2025 but not analysed.Greater Manchester Police Chief Constable Sir Stephen Watson expressed deep regret, stating the data could have inspired further investigations.The apology followed the sentencing of Mohammad Bashir for plotting a separate attack with Al-Shamie.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is investigating police handling of Al-Shamie's case, including potential misconduct in sexual offence allegations.The inquests into the victims' deaths will examine radicalisation and prevention measures.Sir Stephen acknowledged the missed opportunities to act on extremist messages found on the attacker's devices.