A man identified by detectives as an associate of the perpetrator of the October 2025 terrorist attack at Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue has pleaded guilty to preparing for acts of terrorism.
Mohammad Asim Bashir, of Shaftesbury Road, Cheetham Hill, entered the plea at the Old Bailey on Friday. The 31-year-old pleaded guilty to one count of preparation for acts of terrorism under Section 5 of the Terrorism Act 2006.
Counter Terrorism Policing North West launched a major investigation following the terrorist attack at Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in October 2025.
Detectives said enquiries established that Bashir was an associate of Jihad Al Shamie and that the pair carried out hostile reconnaissance of a UK defence facility on 14th August 2025.
According to investigators, CCTV footage showed the two men discussing criteria for potential targets before travelling to the site. Automatic Number Plate Recognition records were said to show the journey, with Bashir driving for most of the trip.
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.”
A two-day sentencing hearing has been set for 22nd & 23rd July 2026 at Manchester Crown Court.
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