Pictured: Hero teacher who protected pupils from knife-wielding student who injured two classmates before being arrested - as terror police launch probe

By LETTICE BROMOVSKY, NEWS REPORTER Published: 20:03, 11 June 2026 | Updated: 20:15, 11 June 2026 A heroic science teacher who stepped in to protect pupils during a school stabbing has been pictured for the first time. Maysum Abdullah, 27, suffered injuries to his neck and hand after allegedly intervening when a teenage girl armed with a knife attacked fellow students at Co-op Academy Higher Blackley in Manchester. The secondary school was placed into lockdown shortly after lessons began on Tuesday morning as emergency services raced to the scene. A 14-year-old girl and a 14-year-old boy were also injured during the incident before staff restrained the suspect.  A 14-year-old girl was later arrested on suspicion of Section 18 assault and has since been detained under the Mental Health Act. Mr Abdullah, who was released from hospital following treatment, spoke briefly about his condition as police continue their investigation. He said: 'I'm recovering, but I am in a lot of pain. I have also been approached by the police to give a comment in relation to what happened. I'm not in the position or frame of mind to give any further comments.' The married father-of-one confirmed he sustained wounds to his neck and hand as it was also announced that Counter Terrorism Policing would now lead the investigation. Maysum Abdullah, 27, suffered injuries to his neck and hand after allegedly intervening when a teenage girl armed with a knife attacked fellow students His wife, Samia, paid tribute to her husband in an emotional social media post, describing the shock of learning he had been stabbed while protecting children in his classroom. She wrote: 'Yesterday, I received the devastating news that my husband had been stabbed whilst trying to protect pupils from a serious knife attack in his classroom. 'No one ever expects to receive a phone call telling them that their loved one has been taken to the hospital after being stabbed. 'I am grateful that his injuries were not life threatening, the wound on his neck and his hand have been treated, however these physical wounds are only part of what our family is now facing. 'My husband entered teaching to make a positive difference in young people's lives and he is truly a hero for protecting and safeguarding those children. 'Our prayers are with the other two pupils who also suffered injuries and to all the students and staff who witnessed such a traumatic event. 'Thank you to all colleagues, family, friends, hospital staff, the police and members of the community for their support, kindness and wishes during this difficult time.' Students and parents have since praised Mr Abdullah's actions, with many describing him as a dedicated teacher who put himself in harm's way to protect others. One pupil wrote online: 'I'm a student that goes to that school and Mr Abdullah was the nicest teacher there. 'The fact he risked his life for two children he's only taught for a few months is truly great for everyone.' Another simply added: 'We love Mr Abdullah.' A parent said: 'It's very scary. My son said the science teacher was stabbed in the neck at the school. The government needs to do more to stop knife crime. It's terrifying this could happen in a school.' Police said the injured teacher and the two pupils were all treated in hospital before being discharged. Mr Abdullah joined the school in September 2024 as a science teacher. He previously studied clinical science at the University of Bradford after completing his education at Heckmondwike Grammar School. Detectives have urged the public not to speculate online as enquiries continue. Pictured with his wife Samia. A 14-year-old girl was later arrested on suspicion of Section 18 assault and has since been detained under the Mental Health Act Chief Inspector Jon Shilvock said: 'Our thoughts are with those that were injured and were caught up in the incident. 'Whilst the physical injuries were not believed to be serious, we know the impact to those involved or witnesses to this will be significant. 'We want to reassure our community we are taking this very seriously. 'We are aware that names relating to the incident are being circulated on social media which are unhelpful for the investigation. 'This is causing concern with the victims and those that have been impacted therefore we would stress that people do not speculate regarding this incident. 'Officers will remain in and around the area to provide support to ensure staff, students and the wider community feel safe. 'If you have any concerns, please speak to our officers who are there to support you.' The Co-op Academies Trust said staff acted swiftly to prevent further injuries after the knife was brought onto the school site. A spokesperson said: 'Shortly after the start of the school day, an incident occurred on site involving a pupil with a knife. 'The school was immediately placed into lockdown, and staff acted bravely to quickly detain a student before emergency services arrived. 'Greater Manchester Police arrested the student, who remains in custody. Police have confirmed this was an isolated incident with no wider threat to the public. 'Three people, two pupils and a member of staff sustained injuries. They were taken to hospital as a precautionary measure, where they are in a stable condition with injuries not believed to be serious. 'While our policies outline strict screening and search powers in line with Department for Education guidance, weapons can unfortunately be small and easily concealed without prior indicators.' 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