UK arrests two men in connection with Texas Synagogue terrorist

The UK has arrested two men in connection with the terrorist who attacked a Texas Synagogue on January 15.

Malik Faisal Akram, 44, was shot dead by authorities after a standoff that lasted 11 hours. Manchester Police had already arrested two teens thought to be connected with the terrorist. Two more people have now been arrested as the investigation expands.

The UK’s Counter Terrorism Unit is working closely with the FBI and the investigation is trying to determine whether a group was involved or the terrorist was working alone, and whether it was a planned attack and whether a terrorist organization was involved.

Akram had attacked Congregation Beth Israel Synagogue in Colleyville, Texas around 11AM on January 15 and held four people hostage. He had entered the Synagogue by pretending to be homeless.

All of the hostages were freed unharmed after he was shot dead by Police.

During the standoff, Akram was heard demanding the release of convicted Pakistani neuroscientist Aafia Siddique who had attempted to murder American officers in Afghanistan, and had links to 9/11 planners and terrorist organization al-Qaeda.

Akram was also investigated by British intelligence in 2020 and remained on the country’s “active” watchlist. In late 2020, he was demoted to the “subject of interest” watchlist, and was no longer considered a threat – allowing him to travel.