The Manchester synagogue terrorist “pledged allegiance” to the so-called Islamic State terror group during a 999 call in which he claimed responsibility for his attack, police have said.

Jihad al-Shamie made the call claiming responsibility for the attack while officers were en-route to the scene, after the 35-year-old had driven at worshippers in his car outside Heaton Park Hebrew Synagogue in Crumpsall, Manchester, last Thursday morning.

In an investigative update on Wednesday, Greater Manchester Police said: “Minutes after the first call was made to GMP and as firearms officers were making their way to the scene, Al-Shamie called 999 claiming responsibility for the attack.

“He also pledged allegiance to Islamic State.”

This breaking news story is being updated.

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