Detectives have secured warrants to extend the detention of two men arrested over a suspected terror plot targeting the Jewish community in the Manchester area, the Metropolitan Police has confirmed.

The legal extension, granted on Wednesday, permits Counter Terrorism Policing London to hold and question the suspects at a London police station until Sunday.

Both men, who are in their 30s, were detained on Sunday on Newton Street in Manchester under Section 41 of the Terrorism Act 2000 as part of what police described as a long-running proactive investigation.

Counter-terrorism officers have also concluded searches at two residential addresses linked to the inquiry: one on Epworth Street in Liverpool and another on Lancaster Road in Salford.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans, Senior National Coordinator for Counter Terrorism Policing, said the operation disrupted an alleged plot aimed at the Jewish community in the Manchester area.

DAC Evans acknowledged the concern the arrests will cause, particularly given the timing during the Jewish High Holy Day period. She said counter-terrorism teams are working closely with Greater Manchester Police and forces across the country to provide protective security advice and support in areas with Jewish communities.

Police have emphasised that they do not believe there is any ongoing threat to the public, though they continue to urge vigilance.

The identities of the suspects and the specific nature of the alleged plans have not been made public, which is standard procedure during an active counter-terrorism inquiry to protect ongoing operational lines of inquiry.

Anyone with information or concerns is asked to contact police confidentially via gov.uk/ACT or by calling the anti-terror hotline on 0800 789 321. In an emergency, always dial 999.

With questioning set to continue through to Sunday, I will continue to track developments as further official details emerge.