Greater Manchester Police have confirmed that Monday night’s fatal incident at the Manchester Arena is being treated as terrorism.
They have also provided a helpline number for friends and relatives concerned about their loved ones. It is: 0161 856 9400.
A police spokesperson explained that 19 people had died in the incident, whilst around 50 were being treated in six local hospitals.
The Greater Manchester force are currently working with national counter-terrorism partners and intelligence authorities as part of their investigation.
They stressed that people should continue to avoid the area around the Manchester Arena as emergency services may be impeded.
You can read a summary of the statement, and watch the video below:
Latest statement on incident at Manchester Arena pic.twitter.com/BEpLOan3dY
— Greater Manchester Police (@gmpolice) May 23, 2017
#Manchester explosion @gmpolice statement: 19 dead and around 50 injured in the incident that's currently being treated as terrorism pic.twitter.com/MsKOLMXyCu
— Sky News (@SkyNews) May 23, 2017