British Authorities Uncover “Significant” Evidence Regarding Manchester Attack; United States Blamed for Leaking Information

As investigations continue regarding the attack in Manchester at the Ariana Grande concert, Monday night, authorities reportedly find “significant” evidence concerning important items at the crime scene.  According to Greater Manchester Police Chief Constable Ian Hopkins, eight suspects have been identified and put into custody— “initial searches of premises have [also] revealed items that we believe are very important to the investigation.”  Of those eight suspects, Ismail Abedi and Ramadan Abedi are among the detainees who are respectfully the brother and father of the 22-year-old Manchester bomber, Salman Abedi.

But, British officials furiously accuse United States officials for leaking valuable information regarding the case to the media.  ABC News writes that, “One British official told the Associated Press that police in Manchester have stopped sharing information about their bombing investigation with the U.S. until they get a guarantee that there will be no more leaks to the media.”  Though withholding further information, British Prime Minister Theresa May expressed that she would further discuss such details regarding the case with President Trump at a NATO summit meeting.

Many American news outlets, such as The New York Times, published photographs detailing aspects about the bomb that British authorities would have preferred remain confidential—such news outlets have also disclosed the name of the attacker, Salman Abedi, which was also intended to remain withheld.  Police Chief Constable Hopkins noted that the leaks “caused much distress for families that are already suffering terribly with their loss.”

The New York Times responded to this blame by saying, “The images and information presented were neither graphic nor disrespectful of victims, and consistent with the common line of reporting on weapons used in horrific crimes.”  The company added by saying that its reporting was “both comprehensive and responsible.”

Prime Minister May notes that terrorism threatens England to the highest degree, suggesting that another terrorist attack may be around the corner.  Armed military personnel from the British Army have been deployed to protect high-target landmarks, such as Buckingham Palace and the Houses of Parliament in London.  “The public should remain vigilant,” May adds.

All across England at 11 AM, the public bowed their heads in a moment of silence to pay their respects for those lost in the bombing.  In Manchester, many gathered in St. Ann’s Square and began singing “Don’t Look Back in Anger”—a song by Oasis, a band from Manchester.  Queen Elizabeth II visited the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital to tend to the many victims and respecting families.  She voiced, “It’s dreadful.  Very wicked, to target that sort of thing.”

With ongoing investigations, many are taking measures to shift their emotions of anger to feelings of restoration and healing.  Though times are still yet dangerous in England, many hope that the violence and hate will come to an end, and an era of peace will be instilled.

Featured Image via Pixabay