United Kingdom: Police arrest suspect at London's Heathrow Airport June 6, related to Manchester attack

Event

On Tuesday, June 6, police arrested a 38-year old man at London’s Heathrow airport in connection with the Manchester bombing on May 22. According to police, the operation was planned and the airport was at no direct risk.

Context

During the police investigation following the bombing, nineteen people have been arrested, with 12 being released and seven still in custody.

On Monday, May 22, at least 22 people were killed and 59 more were injured in an explosion that occurred at the Manchester Arena (located in the northern English city of Manchester) at approximately 22:40 (local time). The incident occurred at the end of a concert being given by pop singer Ariana Grande. Police officers are treating the incident as a terrorist attack carried out by a suicide bomber, Salman Abedi, who was killed on the spot. On Tuesday, May 23, the Islamic State (IS) claimed responsibility for the bombing, stating that one of their members placed explosives in the middle of the crowd. This contradicts reports by Manchester police.

The Manchester attack was the biggest attack since 2005, when 52 people died and 700 others were injured on London’s public transportation system.

Advice

Individuals present in the United Kingdom are advised to adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and report any suspicious objects or behavior.