“The great city of Manchester has been affected by terrorism before. Its spirit was not bowed; its community continued. This time it has been a particular attack on the most vulnerable in our society – its intention was to sow fear – its intention is to divide. But it will not succeed.” – Home Secretary Amber Rudd
Twenty-two people have died and scores more injured in a terror attack on Manchester Arena, Greater Manchester Police have confirmed. Police said the lone male attacker, who died in the blast, was carrying an improvised explosive device which he detonated.
An explosion ripped through the stadium at 22:35 last night as young fans and their families were leaving an Ariana Grande pop concert.
It is the deadliest attack on British soil since the 7/7 bombings in central London in which fifty-two people lost their lives. Greater Manchester’s Chief Constable Ian Hopkins said it was “the most horrific incident” the city had ever faced.
Prime Minister Theresa May described the attack as ‘appalling’ and said her thoughts are with the victims and their families and
Home Secretary Amber Rudd said: ““I know that some people will only just be waking up to the news of the horrific attacks in Manchester last night. This was a barbaric attack, deliberately targeting some of the most vulnerable in our society – young people and children out at a pop concert.
“My thoughts and prayers go out to the families and the victims who have been affected, and I know the whole country will share that view.
“I’d like to pay tribute to the emergency services who have worked throughout the night professionally and effectively – they have done an excellent job.
“Later on this morning, I will be attending COBRa, chaired by the Prime Minister, to collect more information – to find out more – about this particular attack, and I can’t comment any more on that at the moment.
“The public should remain alert but not alarmed. If they have anything to report, they should approach the police.
But I have two further things to add.
“The great city of Manchester has been affected by terrorism before. Its spirit was not bowed; its community continued.
This time it has been a particular attack on the most vulnerable in our society – its intention was to sow fear – its intention is to divide. But it will not succeed.”
Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “My thoughts are with the victims, their families and all those who have been affected by this barbaric attack in Manchester.
“The Scottish Government is working with Police Scotland and the UK Government to ensure that we have a full understanding of the developing situation. I will convene a meeting of the Scottish Government’s Resilience Committee this morning to receive an update and to consider any implications for Scotland.”
Political parties have cancelled general election campaigning today as a mark of respect.
Police have set up an emergency number for those concerned about friends and relatives: 0161 856940
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