Highly credible sources have confirmed to YWN that the two individuals captured on video casing out two Brooklyn Synagogues have been identified. After an intense investigation by the NYPD’s Counter-terrorism Squad, it appears that this is not terror related. Police were expected to release further details later this evening. The incident which occurred on Saturday afternoon, had the Jewish community on edge, and the NYPD on alert.

As YWN had reported, two men were caught by an alert security guard approaching the doors of Congregation Bet Yaakob, located at the corner of Ocean Parkway and Avenue R. Another person said he witnessed the same men a short while later at the Bet Torah Shul, located just a few blocks away on Ocean Parkway and Avenue K. Security cameras captured the incident, and the NYPD launched an intense investigation to identify the two men.

Their identities were confirmed late Monday afternoon. They are reportedly from Connecticut, and despite multiple reports, may not even be Muslim.

NYC Councilman Greenfield when reached for comment told YWN “I want to thank the nypd for their vigilance, they did extraordinary work in keeping our community safe and calm. And it is to their credit that they so swiftly have identified the individuals and have successfully resolved this situation.

Greenfield added that this is a learning experience for all of us, when you see something say something! In an age where wanna-be terrorists are literally living in our backyards, we must take nothing for granted.

“I’ve spoken with the NYPD and it appears that this matter may be over,” said Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) this evening. “The police have identified the suspects. The explanation for why these men visited these synagogues sounds strange, but the police don’t believe there’s a reason for concern at this point. They are continuing the investigation until everything is made perfectly clear.

“The other good news is how quickly the NYPD responded and how quickly they identified the suspects. Our community remained calm yet vigilant throughout this matter. The NYPD has our community’s deep and sincere gratitude.”

NYC Councilman Chaim Deutsch told YWN: “Following an investigation into suspicious behavior outside of local synagogues this weekend, the NYPD has determined that the individuals in question were not a threat to our local institutions. The swift investigation and resolution is demonstrative of the success that can be had when community and law enforcement work together. We are fortunate to have the best police force in the world, and I am proud to commend Chief Steven Powers of Patrol Borough Brooklyn South and his Counterterrorism Bureau for their immediate response and dedicated work to resolve this matter. In these turbulent times, it is increasingly important for the residents of the neighborhood and the police protecting us to work as a team to preempt and combat violence. If you see something – say something – report suspicious activity immediately to 911.”

(Chaim Shaprio – YWN)