Manchester Attack: Chester house raided by counter terror police

Counter-Terrorism officers along with Cheshire police raided a house in Chester early this morning.

The raid is part of the on-going investigation into the attack on Manchester Arena last Monday which killed 22 people and injured many more.

Cheshire Police have said there is no direct threat to the public of Cheshire.

The force has not disclosed the location of raid in Chester though some reports suggest it was in Sumner House student accommodation, Delamere Street.

Police have also said officers will be visible in Chester over the next few days providing reassurance.

Security services have embarked on a wide-ranging operation across the country searching for those linked to the attacker Salman Abedi and the network which police say was behind the attack.

CCTV Image of the attacker Salma Abedi taken just before the deadly attack on Manchester Arena

Greater Manchester police say 16 people have so far been arrested in connection with the investigation, two have been released without charge.

Detective Superintendent Aaron Duggan, Head of Crime at Cheshire Constabulary, said:

This morning’s activity will understandably cause concern within the local community and I want to reassure residents that as part of the on-going investigation there will be an increased police presence in the area.

Officers will be visible in Chester over the next few days providing reassurance and if any members of the community have any concerns then I would encourage you to speak to local officers.

We will continue to work closely with our communities by carrying out patrols over the coming weeks and addressing any concerns they may have.

I want to urge local communities to stay alert, but not alarmed, be extra vigilant and to report any suspicious behaviour to the Anti-Terror hotline on 0800 789321 or in an emergency call 999.