Greater Manchester Police have made two arrests related to the investigation into a Synagogue attack in Texas perpetrated by a British man.

Officers from Counter Terror Policing North West arrested two teenagers in South Manchester on Sunday night and they remain in police custody for questioning.

Yesterday it was revealed that the man shot dead by US law enforcement after a tense 11-hour standoff was British citizen Malik Faisal Akram from Blackburn.

#UPDATE | Counter Terrorism Policing North West update following the events in Texas: pic.twitter.com/Q3o08bc8Js

— Greater Manchester Police (@gmpolice) January 16, 2022

Akram stormed the Congregation Beth Israel synagogue in Colleyville Texas during Shabbat services, taking four hostages including Rabbi Charlie Cytron-Walker who has said he's "grateful to be alive."

FJOoQ1YWQAM-6GY Charlie Cytron Walker FB

The family of Akram has apologised to the victims of the attack, saying "We would like to say that we as a family do not condone any of his actions and would like to sincerely apologise wholeheartedly to all the victims involved in the unfortunate incident."

The family have also confirmed that they're fully co-operating with law enforcement, including the FBI, who are believed to be leading the investigation internationally.

GettyImages-1364887681

In response to the news that the attacker was British, the Campaign Against Antisemitism said: “That the perpetrator came from the United Kingdom raises very serious questions for British authorities, including whether Mr. Akram was encouraged or supported by local elements who may pose a continuing threat to the Jewish community or the wider public."