Police have made an arrest after bust of Chaim Weizmann and a bust Harold Baily Dixon were stolen from the University of Manchester last weekend
They were later shown defaced on Social Media.
This morning a 25-year-old man was aerated on suspicion of aggravated burglary. He remains in custody ahead of being questioned by detectives.
Detective Chief Inspector Jill Billington, said: “We know that this incident has caused considerable distress across the community, many of which have come to Manchester to work and study.
“We understand that this has caused upset and unrest and we know that the shockwaves are being felt much wider than the local student community.
“We will always take incidents of this nature very seriously and we have been working with partners around the clock, and I am pleased to say that this morning we have made an arrest.
“This is only the first step, there is much more work that is happening behind the scenes to apprehend all those involved.
“I hope the latest action reassures our communities and sends a message to those intent on committing these types of criminal acts. It’s not acceptable and is not tolerated in Greater Manchester.
“We are continuing to appeal for information and ask anyone who may have seen something suspicious to contact us as a matter of urgency, please don’t assume we already know this information.”
Professor Duncan Ivison, President and Vice-Chancellor of The University of Manchester, stated: “This criminal act has deeply impacted our University community, and beyond, and makes no contribution whatsoever to a better understanding of the current conflict
in the Middle East. The safety and well-being of our students and staff are paramount, and I want to thank Greater Manchester Police for their swift and effective response.
“Our University is a place committed to exploring challenging ideas in a respectful and tolerant environment. We welcome the exchange of strongly held views; but acts of criminality have no place here.
“We will continue to engage directly with our staff, students, and the local community, ensuring that their voices are heard, that they feel safe and welcome on our campus, and to foster a culture of mutual respect and understanding.”
