TWO MEN arrested in connection with Blackburn hostage taker Malik Faisal Akram's actions in Texas last week have seen their period in custody extended.

Greater Manchester Police issued the update on Friday saying that they are continuing to collaborate with American law enforcement and the men while be kept for further questioning.

Malik Faisal Akram, known as Faisal Akram, 44, was shot following an 11-hour stand-off at Congregation Beth Israel on Saturday, with two other men arrested in Birmingham and Manchester on Thursday as part of the UK investigation into the incident.

A Greater Manchester Police spokesperson said: "Officers from CTPNW are continuing with their investigation following the events in Texas, they are working closely with and are supporting US law enforcement.

"As part of the local investigation, two men arrested yesterday in Birmingham and Manchester remain in custody and officers have been granted an extension of custody to continue to question them further.

"We continue to work closely with colleagues from other forces.

"Communities Defeat Terrorism, and the help and support we get from the public is a vital part of that.

"So we would urge everyone to remain vigilant, and if you do see anything suspicious then please report it, in confidence, to police via the Anti-terrorist hotline or gov.uk/ACT.

"It won’t ruin lives, but it may well save them."