Man with links to October 2025 synagogue attacker pleads guilty

A man with links to the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue attacker has pleaded guilty to preparation for acts of terrorism.

Mohammad Asim Bashir (18/09/1994) of Shaftesbury Road, Cheetham Hill appeared earlier today (Friday 5 June 2026) at the Central Criminal Court and pleaded guilty to one count of preparation for acts of terrorism (Section 5, Terrorism Act 2006).

The prosecution will consider the basis of the guilty plea. A two-day sentencing hearing has been set for 22/23 July 2026 at Manchester Crown Court.

Following the terrorist attack that took place at the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in October 2025, Counter Terrorism Policing North West launched a large-scale investigation, drawing resources from across the national CTP network to establish the full circumstances behind the attack.

Enquiries conducted by detectives identified Bashir as an associate of Jihad Al-Shamie and established that the two of them had conducted hostile reconnaissance of a UK defence facility on 14 August 2025.

The pair were seen on CCTV prior to the trip discussing criteria for potential targets to attack. They were then seen on ANPR making the journey to the site, with Bashir acting as the driver for most of the journey.

Assistant Chief Constable Rob Potts, who holds operational responsibility for Counter Terrorism Policing North West, said: “From the outset of our investigation into the tragic events at the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue, we have been unwavering in our commitment to establishing the full circumstances behind what happened.

“Our comprehensive enquiries led to the offending of Mohammed Bashir coming to light. Although not directly linked to the synagogue attack, the fact he conducted hostile reconnaissance alongside a man who would later commit a terrorist attack show the seriousness of his actions.

“We welcome today’s guilty plea and look ahead to the sentencing which is due to take place in July. 

“This case will understandably prompt public commentary about the terrorist attack that took place last October. My thoughts today are with all those affected, particularly the loved ones of those whose lives were taken and those who were seriously injured.”