Police have arrested two men on suspicion of terrorism offences in Manchester city centre following a major emergency response in the Northern Quarter. The arrests were made on Newton Street at around 2.45pm on Sunday (September 20) as part of an ongoing Counter Terrorism Policing investigation.

A major police operation was launched in the area, with a large cordon still in place on Sunday evening as officers continued their investigations. A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police confirmed that two men had been arrested under Section 41 of the Terrorism Act 2000 and remain in custody.

Police added that there is currently no evidence to indicate a wider threat to the public.

A spokesperson from the Metropolitan Police said: “At around 14:45 today (Sunday 20 September 2026) at Newton Street, Manchester officers from Counter Terrorism Policing arrested two individuals as part of an ongoing Counter Terrorism Policing investigation.

“Both males were arrested under Section 41 of the Terrorism Act 2000.

“The operation was led by Counter Terrorism Policing London, working closely with Counter Terrorism Policing North West and Greater Manchester Police.

“Those arrested remain in police custody.

“At this time, there is no information to suggest any wider threat to the public.

“Counter Terrorism Policing continues to work closely with policing partners across the country to help keep the public safe. We understand that activity of this nature may cause concern and, alongside local forces, we remain committed to providing reassurance, protective security advice and support to communities.

“We encourage anyone who sees or hears anything suspicious or concerning to report it via gov.uk/ACT or by calling the Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321

“Due to the ongoing nature of the investigation, we are unable to provide further details at this stage.”