Two teenage Manchester girls who fled to Syria to ‘join’ terror group ISIS have been branded a ‘threat to themselves and potentially their family’ by police.
Salma and Zahra Halane, 16, from Chorlton are believed to have flown to Turkey on June 26 before travelling on to Syria to meet their brother.
The North West Counter Terrorism Unit is now investigating the reason for travel and whether they were assisted.
Detective Chief Superintendent Tony Mole, Head of the North West Counter Terrorism Unit (NWCTU) said: “First, I want to stress that the welfare of these two teenagers is our overarching priority.
“This investigation now has two main strands – to safeguard the girls wherever possible and to assess any further lines of enquiry as the investigation progresses.
“They are clearly posing a threat to themselves and potentially the community and their family and friends are concerned for their well-being.
“This is why the National Prevent Programme is key. Our Prevent Officers work in the community – out there in the real world, dealing with real lives – to help those at risk of being radicalised or influenced into travelling to a volatile and dangerous region.
“It is also important that we thank the community for their assistance in this matter while reminding them and the wider media that the family remain very concerned for the safety of their daughters.
“If you are concerned about a friend or family member who has gone missing, or if you have any information that could help, you should contact the police via the 101 non-emergency number.
“If you see or hear anything that could be terrorist-related trust your instincts and call the Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321.”
Image courtesy of Nasrun Min Allah via YouTube, with thanks
