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The final report into the deadly Grenfell Tower fire will be published today – more than seven years after the disaster.

The long-running inquiry will present its findings on the 2017 blaze at the west London tower block, which claimed the lives of 72 people.

Victims of the fire ranged in age from an unborn baby to an 84-year-old woman.

These are their stories.

Anthony “Tony” Disson, 65

Tony Disson was last in contact with his family at 3am and was still inside the building

The 65-year-old retired lorry driver had lived on the 10th floor of Grenfell Tower for eight years.

In a statement, Mr Disson’s family described him as a “real family man”.

They said: “Tony was the most generous person you could ever meet, he didn’t have much but would always be there to help people.”

Ali Yawar Jafari, 82

Ali Yawar Jafari

Ali Yawar Jafari lived on the 10th floor and tried to escape the tower with his wife and daughter when the fire broke out.

They got in a lift but Mr Jafari got out on the 10th floor after suffering breathing difficulties. He was later pulled from the building by firefighters but pronounced dead at the scene.

His family said he was “loved and will be greatly missed by his family and the wider community”.

Abdeslam Sebbar, 77

Abdeslam Sebbar’s remains were found in his flat on the 11th floor.

The 77-year-old died from the inhalation of fumes.

Denis Murphy, 56

Denis Murphy - 14th floor
Image:
Pic: Metropolitan Police

Denis Murphy lived on the 14th floor of Grenfell Tower, in flat 11, and called his family to say he was trapped during the blaze.

In a statement, Mr Murphy’s family said: “The pain, loss and sorrow we feel is indescribable and we have been left devastated with a gaping hole in our hearts that can never be filled.

“To us, he was an inspiration and an amazing, selfless caring person and we feel lucky and blessed that he was part of our family.”

Zainab Deen, 32, and Jeremiah Deen, two

Zainab Dean
Jeremiah Deen - 14th floor
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Pic: Metropolitan Police

The 32-year-old, who lived on the 14th floor of Grenfell Tower, was on the phone with her brother until 4am on the day of the fire.

Ms Deen’s two-year-old son Jeremiah was also killed in the blaze.

Originally from Sierra Leone, Ms Deen was described as a “beautiful, loving lady”.

Zainu and Maria Deen, Jeremiah’s grandparents, said: “You spent a moment in our arms, but you will last a lifetime in our hearts.”

Mohammad Alhajali, 23

Mohammed Alhajali

A civil engineering student who lived on the 14th floor with his older brother Omar, who managed to escape from the fire, Mr Alhajali called a friend in Syria, asking him to say goodbye to his family, who he had been unable to reach.

Mr Alhajali had fled Syria with his two brothers in 2014 to start a new life in London, studying at the University of West London. He had hoped to return one day to help the country.

His friend lost contact with him at 5am. He sent one final message saying: “The fire is here now goodbye.”

A family statement read at his funeral service said he “loved London and the people he met here”.

Mr Alhajali was described as “a loving and caring person” who was “always showing support and solidarity for friends and family stuck back in Syria”.

Steve Power, 63

Steve told a friend he was reluctant to leave the flat without his two dogs

The 63-year-old was said to be reluctant to leave his two dogs. It is understood that he remained in his flat on the 15th floor.

His children said: “Our dad was nothing short of a character. He left some sort of impression on everyone, like Marmite. The majority loved him.”

Hamid Kani, 61

Hamid Kani

The 61-year-old Iranian lived alone on the 15th floor of Grenfell Tower, but his body was recovered on the 23rd floor – suggesting he fled upstairs in search of safety.

In a statement, his family, who all live in Iran, said he would be remembered “for his wit, compassion and devotion to his family and friends”.

They added: “No words can express our sorrow for his loss and the way he left us. He will always be part of our lives and his memory will live on.”

Deborah “Debbie” Lamprell, 45

Deborah Lamprell lived on the 16th floor of the building
Image:
Pic: Metropolitan Police

Debbie Lamprell lived on the 16th floor and worked front of house at Opera Holland Park.

The 45-year-old went to the top floor of the building with a group of 12 people when the fire broke out and called the emergency services.

She was described by her mother as “a wonderful, precious daughter, always smiling and helping others”.

Marjorie Vital, 68, and Ernie Vital, 50

Ernie and Marjorie Vital

Marjorie Vital lived on the 16th floor of Grenfell Tower in a flat she shared with her son, Ernie.

She had lived there almost since the tower was built in the 70s and had worked in the textile industry for many years after coming to the UK from Dominica.

Her family said: “She was a beautiful, joyful, independent, intelligent, kind-hearted, sensitive individual who dedicated her life to her children.”

Her son Ernie’s family said he worked in the catering industry: “He was a creative individual who pursued a creative life. He was a proud, humble, mature and independent man. He was a loyal son and a law-abiding citizen who maintained good relationships with all those he met in society.

“He will be remembered as a kind, sensitive and caring person with a warm-hearted smile.”

Joseph Daniels, 69

Joseph Daniels

Joseph Daniels lived on the 16th floor of Grenfell Tower and reportedly suffered from dementia, so was confused and could not be persuaded by his son to leave the building.

His son, who escaped the fire, said on the first day of the Grenfell inquiry: “The events of that night took his life and all trace of his existence from this world.”

Sheila Smith, 84

Sheila Smith

The 84-year-old’s body was recovered on the 16th floor of the tower, where she had lived for 34 years.

Sheila had two sons, six grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren and was said to be a “very active and well-respected” member of the community.

Her family said: “Sheila was cycling around London, performing yoga daily and swimming regularly in the Kensington Leisure Centre until she was 80 years old.

“As a family we are heartbroken as to this senseless tragedy that took her far too early, and will do all we can to honour her name.”

Kamru Miah, 79, Rabeya Begum, 64, Husna Begum, 22, Mohammed Hanif, 26, and Mohammed Hamid, 29

Five members of the Begum family are missing
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Rabeya Begum (left) and Husna Begum

Kamru Miah
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Husna Begum (left) and Komru Miah

Mohammed Hanif - 17 floor
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Mohammed Hanif

Mohammed Hanif
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Mohammed Hamid

Kamru Miah lived on the 17th floor with his wife Rabeya Begum, their daughter Husna Begum and two sons, Mohammed Hanif and Mohammed Hamid.

Mr Miah had difficulty walking and his grown-up children stayed in the tower because they knew their parents were not mobile enough to escape – all five of them died.

They were said to be on the phone with relatives throughout the blaze.

Khadija Khalloufi, 52

Khadija Khaloufi - 17th floor

Khadija Khalloufi died after she became separated from her husband, Sabah Abdullah, as they tried to escape from their flat on the 17th floor.

Due to the crush and panic in the stairwell, they were split up between the 16th and 15th floors. Mr Abdullah survived.

Vincent Chiejina, 60

Vincent Chiejina

Vincent Chiejina lived on the 17th floor and was identified by his DNA.

The 60-year-old’s provisional cause of death was given as “consistent with the effects of fire”.

Isaac Paulos, five

Isaac Paulous
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Pic: Metropolitan Police

The schoolboy’s body was discovered on the 13th floor – five levels below the flat where he lived with his family, who he was separated from during the fire.

In a statement, Isaac’s family said they would “miss our kind, energetic, generous little boy”.

They added: “He was such a good boy who was loved by his friends and family. We will miss him forever, but we know God is looking after him now and that he is safe in heaven.”

Birkti Haftom, 29, and Biruk Haftom, 12

Berkti Haftom
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Pic: Metropolitan Police

Biruk Haftom
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Pic: Metropolitan Police

Birkti and her 12-year-old son Biruk lived on the 18th floor of the building.

The 29-year-old’s family described her as a “generous, caring, loving mother, partner, sister, aunty and friend” who will be “missed by us all forever”.

Biruk was described as “a loving, pure-hearted boy, wise beyond his years and known for his politeness, kind heart and his love for his family and friends.”

Their family added: “Berkti and Biruk left an everlasting legacy full of lovely memories and their contagious laughter and charisma will live in our hearts forever.

“We are deeply hurt and heartbroken our angels were taken from us so cruelly, so young. We will not rest until justice is served!”

Sakina Afrasehabi, 65, and Fatemeh Afrasiabi, 59

Sakina Afrasehabi
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Pic: Metropolitan Police

Fatima Afrasiabi

Sakina Afrasehabi lived with her younger sister Fatima in Grenfell Tower.

Sakina’s Iranian family have said she was disabled and could only move with a walking stick – but she had no choice but to live on the 18th floor of the building.

Her family said: “Sakina was a loving mother of five, who is much missed by all of us. She was completely selfless in all she did and always put other people first.”

Fatemeh’s nephew Shahrokh said he spoke on the phone to his aunt as the fire spread to the upper floors, who pleaded with him to seek help, but in the final minutes, she was quieter and then the phone disconnected.

Mohamednur Tuccu, 44, Amal Ahmedin, 35, Amaya Tuccu-Ahmedin, three, and Amna Mahmud Idris, 27

Mohamednur Tuccu
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Mohamednur Tuccu

Amal Ahmedin
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Amal Ahmedin

Mohamednur Tuccu and his wife and daughter, Amal Ahmedin, and Amaya Tuccu-Ahmedin, were breaking their Ramadan fast with Amal’s cousin Amna Mahmud Idris and their friends when the blaze broke out.

A family statement said: “This has been a very distressing time for us as a family, but we are relieved that Amal, Amaya and Amna [Mahmud Idris] have been identified following the tragic fire. They will now be laid to rest.”

Amaya Tuccu-Ahmedin
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Amaya Tuccu-Ahmedin

Amna Mahmud Idris
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Amna Mahmud Idris

Ms Idris’s husband Ibrahim told the hearing: “She came to live with me in the UK in March 2016. After one year I lost her forever.”

Eslah “Suhar” Elgwahry, 64 and Mariem Elgwahry, 27

Mariem Elgwahry
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Mariem Elgwahry

Eslah Elgwahry, who was also known as Suhar, lived with her 27-year-old daughter Mariem on the 19th floor.

Soon after the fire, a friend of her daughter shared an appeal on social media, writing: “Last someone heard from her was 2.30am, she was with her mum.”

Eslah’s remains were found on the 23rd floor, four floors higher than her flat. Mariem also died in the fire.

Mary “Sissy” Mendy, 52, and Khadija “Ya-Haddy Sisi” Saye, 24

Mary Mendy
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Mary Mendy

Also known as Sissy, Gambia-born Mary Mendy was with her daughter, artist and photographer Khadija Saye, also known as Ya-Haddy Sisi Saye, on the 20th floor of the tower.

Ms Mendy’s sister said in a tribute: “Your heart was pure, your soul was one of a kind. You will be missed for a lifetime.”

File pic: PA
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Khadija Saye. Pic: PA

At the time of the blaze Ms Saye’s work was part of an exhibition at the Venice Biennale, and has since been displayed at the Tate Britain.

Her friend, the now foreign secretary David Lammy, called her “a wonderful young woman” and “a talented artist”.

Jessica Urbano Ramirez, 12

Jessica Urbano Ramirez

Jessica was at home on the 20th floor of the tower block when the fire broke out.

A family statement said: “Our little girl was loving, kind-hearted and caring. She brought joy to everyone who met her and her laugh was contagious.”

Omar Belkadi, 32, Farah Hamdan, 31, Leena Belkadi, six months, and Malak Belkadi, seven

Omar Belkadi
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Omar Belkadi

Six-month-old Leena Belkadi's body was found in the arms of her mother Farah Hamdan in Grenfell Tower
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Farah Hamdan and six-month-old Leena Belkadi

Malek, seven and Tazmin Belkaldi, six,  have been found in hospital
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Malek Belkaldi with Tazmin Belkaldi, who survived

Omar Belkadi lived on the 20th floor of Grenfell Tower with his wife Farah Hamdan and their three children.

They died in the fire along with two of their children, Leena and Malak Belkadi, but their daughter Tazmin survived.

Abdulaziz El Wahabi, 52, Faouzia El Wahabi, 41, Yasin El Wahabi, 20, Nur Huda El Wahabi, 16, and Medhi El Wahabi, 8

Grenfell victims Mehdi El-Wahabi (centre),  his father Abdulaziz (top left), mother Faouzia (bottom right), brother Yasin, 20 (top right), and sister Nur Huda, 15 ( bottom left)
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Mehdi El-Wahabi (centre), his father Abdulaziz (top left), mother Faouzia (bottom right), brother Yasin (top right), and sister Nur Huda ( bottom left)

Abdulaziz El Wahabi lived on the 21st floor with his wife Faouzia and their three children, Yasin, Nur Huda, and Mehdi.

Mrs El Wahabi’s niece later said: “They died in a building that should not have got to that extent to burn in that way – and that’s something we’re going to have to live with forever and it’s scary.”

Their family said: “Yasin was a lovable, bubbly and caring young man. He would lend his hand to anyone who asked for help. He was loved by so many and his contagious smile will always be etched on our minds and hearts.

“Nur Huda was a lovable, smart and kind person. She had a lot of potential and that can be recognised in her GCSE exam results. We are proud of her and will continue on remembering her and all our family and friends who have died in this tragedy.”

“Mehdi was a calm and friendly young boy who loved his family very much. He was loved by staff and pupils at his school who held a beautiful memorial and made a plaque in memory of him.”

Logan Gomes, stillborn

Logan Gomes

Unborn baby Logan Gomes was officially recorded by police as a victim of the Grenfell Tower fire.

His mother Andreia Gomes, who was seven months pregnant, lived on the 21st floor with her husband and two daughters – they all managed to escape but Logan was stillborn in hospital on 14 June. He had been due on 21 August.

Speaking on the first day of the Grenfell inquiry, his father Marcio Gomes said he and his wife had prepared for their son’s arrival by painting “twinkle twinkle little star, do you know how loved you are?” on the wall.

Logan’s sister Luana, now aged 19, told Sky News she feels guilty she survived the fire.

Raymond “Moses” Bernard, 63

Raymond 'Moses' Bernard

Raymond Bernard, known to friends as Moses, lived on the 21st floor of the tower and often stayed with his partner, Karen McMillan, on a different floor of the block.

Dubbed a “hero”, he offered shelter to six people in his flat as the fire raged and was discovered alongside them.

His family said: “Gone but not forgotten, you are so dearly loved by us all and will sadly be missed by many. May you rest in eternal peace, with love always.”

Ligaya Moore, 78

Ligaya Moore

Ligaya Moore, from the Philippines, had been a resident of Grenfell Tower for more than 40 years. She had lived alone in her flat on the 21st floor since the death of her husband some years earlier.

In a statement, her family said: “43 years ago, Aunt Ligaya, DITE, as we fondly called her, lived her dream – to live and work in London.

“She endured being away from family – not able to attend her mother’s funeral – but in exchange of all the loneliness and homesickness, she met the love of her life, Jim Moore, a British national, had a new family, acquired new friends, and built a new life in London.

“But the dream turned into a nightmare on that fateful night of June 14, when the Grenfell Tower was consumed in flames. At this time, she was already living by herself in this building, as her husband had passed away several years back.

“The jolly, bubbly person, the lady who loves to dance and who laughed her heart out, succumbed to a fire which turned her laughter into silence.”

Hashim Kedir, 44, Nura Jemal, 35, Yahya Hashim, 13, Firdaws Hashim, 12, and Yaqub Hashim, six

Hashim Kedir - 22nd floor
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Hashim Kedir. Pic: Metropolitan Police

Nura Jemal - 22nd floor
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Nura Jemal. Pic: Metropolitan Police

Siblings 12-year-old Firdaws and her brother 14-year-old Yahya Hashim
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Firdaws (left) and her brother Yahya

Yaqub Hashim - 22nd floor
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Yaqub Hashim. Pic: Metropolitan Police

Hashim Kedir and Nura Jemal lived on the 22nd floor with their children, Yahya, Firdaws, and Yaqub Hashim.

Mr Kedir’s sister described him as her “role model”, saying he was “giving and sharing until his last day”. She described him as “making friends so easily; age, gender, religion, ethnicity or social status didn’t matter”.

A statement on behalf of Ms Jemal’s family said: “You appreciated even the smallest things in life. And your joy was contagious. Being around you could lighten up anyone’s day in a matter of seconds.”

Yahya’s aunt described him as her “most kind, handsome, pure-hearted, sweet nephew”. She said: “Everyone that met you used to fall in love with your politeness and pure-heartedness”.

Firdaws was described as “intelligent, wise, eloquent and beautiful” with “the voice of an angel”.

And Yaqub’s extended family described him as an “energetic, sporty, funny, smart and cute boy”.

Sirria Choucair, 60, Bassem Choucair, 40, Nadia Choucair, 33, Fatima Choucair, 11, Mierna Choucair, 13, and Zainab Choucair, three

Sirria Choucair
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Sirria Choucair

Bassem Choucair
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Bassem Choucair

Sirria Choucair died along with her daughter Nadia Choucair, son-in-law Bassem and her three grandchildren, Fatima, Mierna, and Zainab.

Nadia Choucair
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Nadia Choucair

Fatima Choucair
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Fatima (left), Mierna (middle) and Zaynab (right)

Bassem’s sister-in-law, Sawsan, spoke to him on the phone when the fire started.

She said: “It was just two seconds, he said ‘yeah’ and there was lots of screaming in the background.”

Marco Gottardi, 27, and Gloria Trevisan, 26

Marco Gottardi and Gloria Trevisan were both architects

The Italian architectural assistant lived on the 23rd floor with his girlfriend, architect Gloria Trevisan. The pair had moved from Venice to London around four months before the fire to look for jobs after graduating from the University of Padua.

Mr Gottardi’s cousin posted a message on Facebook the day after the fire, writing: “I don’t have no news from them since last night and their mobile phones are off. I’m praying to God they make it out safely.”

Ms Trevisan spent her final moments on the phone to her mother, telling her: “I had my whole life ahead of me. It’s not fair. I don’t want to die.”

Hesham Rahman, 57

Hesham Rahman

Hesham Rahman lived by himself in a flat on the 23rd floor and was last in contact with his family at 3am on the night of the fire. He had diabetes which made it difficult for him to walk downstairs.

He told his family he could smell smoke, adding: “Don’t worry, as soon as I’m out I’ll let you know. The police are coming to get me, I’ve spoken to them. It’s going to be okay.”

Mohamed Neda, 57

Mohamed Neda

Mohamed Neda’s wife and son escaped to safety and were taken to hospital after the fire broke out. They said he had been on the top floor of the building trying to help people.

His body was found outside the tower block, and he died as a result of multiple injuries consistent with a fall.

Speaking on the first day of the Grenfell inquiry, his brother said that losing his “best friend and role model” had brought his world crashing down.

Mr Neda’s absence “is a void that cannot be filled”, he said, adding: “The only thing I know is that my brother was a hero. He puts others first – that is the memory I will hold in my heart for as long as I live.”

Gary Maunders, 57

Gary Maunders

Gary Maunders was found among the victims on the 23rd floor.

The 57-year-old is believed to have been with his friend Deborah Lamprell, who lived on the 19th floor and was also among the victims.

Abufars Mohamed Ibrahim, 39, Isra Ibrahim, 33, and Fathia Ali Ahmed Elsanosi, 73

Fathia Ali Ahmed Elsanosi
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Fathia Ali Ahmed Elsanosi

Abufars Mohamed Ibrahim lived on the 23rd floor with his sister Isra and his mother Fathia Ali Ahmed Elsanosi. They were all killed in the blaze.

Ms Ahmed, a 73-year-old pensioner, came to the UK as a refugee from Sudan.

Rania Ibrahim, 30, Fethia Hassan, four, and Hania Hassan, three

Rania Ibrham

Mother of two Rania Ibrahim, died along with her daughters Fethia and Hania Hassan.

She was seen running into a smoke-filled corridor to seek help, then looking out of the window to the street below.

Hania Hassan - 23rd floor
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Hania Hassan (left) and Fethia Hassan

Her husband was not in Grenfell Tower at the time of the blaze as he was away in Egypt.

Victoria “Vicky” King, 71, and Alexandra Atala, 40

Victoria King, 71, died alongside her daughter, Alexandra Atala, 40. Pic: Met Police
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Pic: Metropolitan Police

Alexandra Atala
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Pic: Metropolitan Police

Victoria King lived in Grenfell Tower with her 40-year-old daughter Alexandra Atala – they were the final two victims of the blaze to be identified.

Penny Pearce, Ms King’s sister and Ms Atala’s aunt, said: “Eventually, thanks to the Salvation Army family tracing, I was able to get in touch with her and my niece, Alexandra, living in Grenfell Tower.

“If this had not been the case, no family member would have known they had perished as no-one knew they were still living there.”

In a statement, their family said: “We were devastated to hear of our sister, Vicky’s, fate, and that of her daughter, Alexandra, in the Grenfell Tower tragedy.

“Some comfort can come from the knowledge that she and Alexandra were devoted to one another and spent so many mutually supportive years together.

“They died at each other’s side and now they can rest together in peace. We will remember them always.”

Maria Del Pilar Burton, 74

Pily Burton
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Pic: PA

Maria was rescued from the 19th floor but died in hospital in January 2018 from medical complications. She spent seven months in hospital following the fire.

Sky News will have full coverage of the Grenfell report on all platforms

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Manchester synagogue attack: Three arrested after two people killed on Yom Kippur

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Manchester synagogue attack: Three arrested after two people killed on Yom Kippur

The terrorist who killed two men outside a synagogue on the holiest day of the Jewish calendar is believed to be a British citizen of Syrian descent.

Greater Manchester Police have named the suspect as Jihad al Shamie, a 35-year-old who is understood to have entered the UK as a young child. He was granted British citizenship in 2006.

Three people – two men in their 30s and a woman in her 60s – have been arrested on suspicion of the commission, preparation and instigation of acts of terrorism.

Follow the latest updates

The attacker is believed to be Jihad al Shamie, 35
Image:
The attacker is believed to be Jihad al Shamie, 35

Al Shamie allegedly drove a car towards the gates of the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue and then began attacking people with a knife.

He was stopped from getting inside by security staff and members of the congregation. Police shot him dead minutes later, fearing that he was wearing a suicide device.

A knife and a white object worn by the attacker can be seen near his body. Pic: Reuters
Image:
A knife and a white object worn by the attacker can be seen near his body. Pic: Reuters


Three men remain in a serious condition in hospital. One suffered a stab wound, a second was hurt after being hit by the car, and the third has an injury possibly “sustained as officers stopped the attacker”.

Detectives were still at two locations linked to the arrests on last night: White House Avenue in Crumpsall, and Langley Crescent in Prestwich.

The attack happened on the Jewish holy day of Yom Kippur, and police patrols are now being stepped up near synagogues around the country.

“The second he got out of the car, he started stabbing anyone near him,” witness Chava Lewin said.

“He went for the security guard and tried to break into the synagogue.”

Pic: PA
Image:
Pic: PA

Police said it appeared al Shamie hadn’t been flagged up via the Prevent anti-terror and de-radicalisation programme.

The prime minister condemned the “horrific incident” and apologised to Jewish people “on behalf of the nation”.

The first calls were received at 9.31am and minutes later “Plato” was declared – the codeword used by emergency services for a “marauding terror attack”.

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Synagogue attacker ‘shot within seven minutes’ of 999 call

‘He’s trying to press a button’

Video showed police pointing guns at the attacker as another person lies bloodied and motionless near the synagogue’s gates.

“He’s trying to press a button,” says the man filming. “Shoot him!”

As the attacker tries to get to his feet, a single shot is heard. Police said he was killed seven minutes after the first emergency call.

Bomb disposal experts later probed the body and a SAS helicopter flew nearby – but the object worn by the attacker was judged to be “not viable”.

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Resident describes synagogue attack

Chief Constable Sir Stephen Watson said there were a lot of people inside the synagogue when the attacker struck.

“Thanks to the immediate bravery of security staff and the worshippers inside, as well as the fast response of the police, the attacker was prevented from gaining access,” he said.

Read more:
Witnesses describe how attack unfolded

What we know about synagogue attack
When ripples from overseas conflicts wash up on UK shores – analysis

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‘Britain must defeat rising hatred of Jewish people’

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who returned early from a meeting in Denmark, said Britain must defeat rising anti-Jewish hate.

“I express my solidarity, but also my sadness that you still have to live with these fears,” said Sir Keir.

“Nobody should have to do that. Nobody. And so I promise you that I will do everything in my power to guarantee you the security that you deserve, starting with a more visible police presence, protecting your community.”

What is Yom Kippur?

Yom Kippur is the holiest day of the Jewish year.

It is a solemn day of observance and atonement, and marks the peak of the High Holidays.

It comes after Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah, with both occasions bookmarking the Ten Days of Repentance.

Jews observe Yom Kippur by prayer and fasting from sunset the day before to the sunset of the day itself.

No work is permitted, and for some, the day is spent at a synagogue.

The occasion falls on the 10th day of Tishrei – a Hebrew month between late September and early October.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood visited the area, and said the government would do “whatever is required to keep our Jewish community safe”.

Members of the Royal Family also reacted to the attack.

The King said he and the Queen were “deeply shocked and saddened”.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this appalling incident and we greatly appreciate the swift actions of the emergency services,” said the monarch.

The Prince and Princess of Wales said their thoughts were “with the victims and the families”.

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Mother calls for ‘brainwashed’ daughter living with ‘cult’ in Scottish wood to be deported back to Texas

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Mother calls for 'brainwashed' daughter living with 'cult' in Scottish wood to be deported back to Texas

A Texas woman has told Sky News an African “cult” brainwashed, lured and coerced her daughter to move 4,000 miles away to a Scottish forest by preying on her vulnerabilities.

Aspiring lawyer Kaura Taylor, 21, was reported missing from Dallas in May 2025.

Her family then spotted an online image of her living as a “handmaiden” in the so-called Kingdom of Kubala in Jedburgh, Scotland.

Kaura Taylor (right) with the self-professed king and queen. Pic: PA
Image:
Kaura Taylor (right) with the self-professed king and queen. Pic: PA

Sky News can reveal Scottish authorities are assessing a report involving welfare and safety concerns.

Speaking exclusively in her first on-camera interview from Texas, Kaura’s mother, Melba Whitehead, pleaded for authorities to urgently deport her daughter to the US so they can be reunited.

In a separate development, Councillor Scott Hamilton, deputy leader of the local authority, said police, sheriff officers and other agencies went to the camp on Thursday morning and evicted the trio.

He told Sky News: “So, this group obviously arrived in Jedburgh a number of months ago. They set up camp here.

“They were originally on Scottish Borders Council land, and they set up camp and claimed they were a Kingdom of Kubala. And this, quite frankly, was ludicrous.

“It broke laws. It broke the rules. And as landowners we took action, as well as private landowners, to ensure this outcome today.”

The group, dressed head to toe in traditional African attire, is run by Kofi Offeh – who refers to himself as “The King” – and his partner Jean Gasho, who goes by “The Queen”.

The group are camping in woods near Jedburgh. Pic: PA
Image:
The group are camping in woods near Jedburgh. Pic: PA

Both lived a troubled existence in Stockton-on-Tees, in northeast England, prior to camping in the Scottish borders.

A video online shows Mr Offeh claiming ownership of Kaura and boasting “I bought you at a price” before she swears allegiance to her “masters”.

The camp, on the edge of an industrial estate, is at the centre of a legal battle after eviction notices were served to remove them from private and council land.

Eviction notices have been left at the site. Pic: PA
Image:
Eviction notices have been left at the site. Pic: PA

‘Under a spell’

Ms Whitehead alleges she became embroiled in a family dispute following the COVID pandemic.

She said the “cult” groomed her daughter, who was 19 at the time, on social media, before buying a one-way ticket to the UK for a new life in the woods.

The 45-year-old told Sky News: “They utilised the fact that she was angry. To encourage her to get away. They used the fact she was penniless.

“They utilised the funds that they had at their disposal to send for her. They made that happen.”

Ms Whitehead says the group took advantage of her daughter
Image:
Ms Whitehead says the group took advantage of her daughter


Asked if she believes Kaura was coerced into leaving the US, Melba Whitehead said: “I know so. She’s totally brainwashed. This is a cult.

“The first thing a cult is known to do is separate you from those that love you.”

She continued: “This isn’t just another young adult rebelling. This isn’t just another young adult who’s mad at the world. The difference is she’s under someone else’s spell in another country.”

Melba Whitehead and Kaura Taylor in an old photo
Image:
Melba Whitehead and Kaura Taylor in an old photo


‘I can run away if I wish’

Sky News has interviewed Kaura Taylor on her own, away from the so-called Kingdom of Kubala.

She denied being coerced and insisted: “Others are not my concern. People who care about my best interests know why I am here.”

The 21-year-old said “the only things that matter are the camp, the trees and the creepy crawlies” – as she denied being in a cult and dismissed her family’s concerns.

When pressed on how she got to the UK as a cash-strapped teenager, she said she had fled a “rough background” and arrived via a “divine form of transport”.

Kaura Taylor told Sky News she was free to leave but had no intention of doing so
Image:
Kaura Taylor told Sky News she was free to leave but had no intention of doing so


Ms Taylor said she had the ability to “run” away if she wanted, but had no intention of doing so.

Police Scotland told Sky News that officers were looking to “engage with the individual concerned” after a report was made raising concerns.

“I don’t know why Scotland is allowing this foolishness,” said Melba Whitehead. “I believe that Jean and Kofi are opportunistic. I believe there are leeches and vultures for my daughter.”

Kofi Offeh dodged giving a direct answer on whether he had coerced his 'handmaiden'
Image:
Kofi Offeh dodged giving a direct answer on whether he had coerced his ‘handmaiden’

‘Washed by righteousness’

Jean Gasho and Kofi Offeh denied the allegations when Sky News returned to the woods seeking a response.

When asked if he was operating a cult that was brainwashing Kaura, Mr Offeh replied: “This is the Kingdom … brainwashing is the best thing ever to happen to man if it is coming from the right source. For everyone’s brain needs to be washed by righteousness.”

He was questioned on whether he had coerced the 21-year-old but repeatedly dodged giving a direct answer.

He said: “I am the King of Kubala, and all nations belong to me. Everyone you see bows before me because I am the chosen one. They are not coerced, they are called.”

Jean Gasho refused to answer around a dozen questions unless she was referred to as a queen.

“When you address me as the Queen then I will answer your question,” she said.

She then starting singing a traditional African song in an attempt to drown out further questions.

Read more from Sky News:
Ringleader of Rochdale grooming gang jailed for 35 years

Storm Amy forecast to bring strong winds and heavy rain

'King Atehene' at the campsite in woods near Jedburgh. Pic: PA
Image:
‘King Atehene’ at the campsite in woods near Jedburgh. Pic: PA

‘I was once her’

Rachael Reign established a London-based grassroots group advocating for victims of spiritual abuse and coercive religions.

The Surviving Universal UK founder has become an expert after she was groomed in a church-based cult in the British capital from age 13.

Ms Reign told Sky News the Kingdom of Kubala has all the hallmarks of a cult, but it was difficult to help someone who doesn’t recognise they need support.

She said: “I believe it to be a cult. She had particular vulnerabilities, and she was searching for a sense of community and purpose, and that is how cults target people.

“It is completely normalised. That is her reality, and any kind of critique or grievances is seen as a personal attack on her identity and her community. But she is at risk, she’s been isolated, and she needs to be safeguarded.”

Ms Reign added: “There has to be greater understanding around coercive control in relation to cults.

“Currently coercive control is only recognised within domestic settings, which means that victims of coercive control outside of domestic settings fall completely under the radar. There has to be some recognition in terms of legislation.”

The Home Office has been approached for comment.

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What we know about the synagogue attack in Manchester

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What we know about the synagogue attack in Manchester

A man has been shot by police after an attack at a synagogue left two dead in Manchester.

The attack, which comes on the holiest day in the Jewish religious calendar – Yom Kippur – involved a car and a knife, according to Greater Manchester Police (GMP).

At least three other people have been seriously injured.

Here’s everything we know so far.

How did the attack happen?

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Police respond to synagogue attack on Yom Kippur

Police received a call from a member of the public at 9.31am on Thursday morning, who said a man had been stabbed and a car has been driven towards members of the public at Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Crumpsall.

Police received further reports from the public in the minutes that followed, saying that a security guard had been attacked with a knife.

The synagogue is on Middleton Road in Crumpsall – a neighbourhood about three miles north of Manchester’s city centre.

The force said a “large number of people” were worshipping at the synagogue at the time of the attack.

A police spokesperson praised the “quick response” of a witness to the attack which allowed police to take “swift action” to prevent the offender “from entering the synagogue”.

Police shoot man at the scene

A man believed to be the offender was shot by firearms officers at the scene at 9.38am.

Video posted on social media appeared to show police officers pointing guns at someone laying on the ground outside the front of the synagogue. The armed officers shouted at onlookers to “get back” and “move on”.

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Video believed to show moment suspect is shot by police

The person on the ground is seen starting to get up before there is the sound of a gunshot and they fall to the ground.

Another person was shown lying motionless on the ground outside the synagogue gates.

In its most recent update, GMP said the man who is believed to be the offender was “believed to be deceased” after being shot by police.

A photograph has emerged on social media that appears to show the suspected attacker outside the synagogue.

The man believed to the suspect at the scene
Image:
The man believed to the suspect at the scene


Sky News has cross-referenced the image with video from the scene of the attack.

What do we know about the victims?

Police initially said four people were injured after the attack and were being treated for injuries “caused by both the vehicle and stab wounds”.

They later confirmed that two victims had died at the scene, and said that three other members of the public were in a serious condition.

What is happening now?

Armed police officers, emergency response teams and fire crews are at the scene, with police helicopters flying overhead.

A bomb disposal unit is also at the scene, as police have said the suspect’s condition cannot be confirmed due to “suspicious items on his person”.

Pic: PA
Image:
Pic: PA

Middleton Road has been closed between Wilton Road and Crumpsall Lane, the Manchester Evening News reported, adding a police cordon is in place.

North West Ambulance Service said in a statement: “Following reports of an incident on Middleton Road in Crumpsall, the trust has dispatched resources to the scene.

“We are currently assessing the situation and working with other members of the emergency services.

“Our priority is to ensure people receive the medical help they need as quickly as possible.”

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