Increased patrols in Devon and Cornwall after Manchester terror attack

Devon and Cornwall Police have increased patrols and reached out to Jewish communities across the region in response to the terror attack at a Manchester synagogue on Yom Kippur.

Assistant Chief Constable Jim Pearce confirmed today (October 3) that neighbourhood policing teams and the force’s Diverse Communities Teams have been in direct contact with synagogues and Jewish groups in Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly to offer reassurance and support.

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Devon and Cornwall Police told Exeter Today: "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."

Jim Pearce said: "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.

"Additional high visibility patrols are being carried out… Our thoughts and sympathies are with the victims in Manchester, their loved ones and the wider Jewish community.”

Police are also working with partner agencies to ensure further support is available locally. 

The action comes after the attack on Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Manchester on Wednesday morning, which left two people dead and several others injured.