Police step up patrols after mosque attack
POLICE patrols are being stepped up in Greater Manchester as Muslim leaders across the region shared their concerns about the London mosque attack and called for unity.
GMP announced on Monday night that there would be increased reassurance patrols around all places of worship.
It comes just hours after a man died and at least eight people were injured when a van ploughed into people leaving Finsbury Park Mosque in London.
Senior officers in Manchester say there is no specific intelligence about a similar style attack.
However, with the Muslim celebration of Eid looming, police say they are committed to making officers more visible.
Dobir Miah, chief officer for the Rochdale Council of Mosques, said security at many local mosques has been stepped up since the Manchester Arena terror attack.
He says more volunteer stewards have been enlisted to ‘keep a close eye’ on the congregations.
“Most faith organisations are run on a shoestring budget so they don’t need any unnecessary hassles and costs,” he said. “Mosques are open public spaces and anyone can go in.”
On Monday night, hundreds of people attended a vigil at Manchester Central Mosque, in Victoria Park, to discuss how the city’s communities can come together in the wake of recent terrorist attacks.
It comes as Muslim leaders in Manchester have said yesterday’s attack was an ‘affront on the British people’s way of life’.
Gorton MP Afzal Khan said the terrorist incident is an attack on ‘our values of freedom and respect’, adding: “I think it’s important to understand that this attack and the previous attacks do not represent Britain.
“I think many Muslims feel scared because of the nature of this - it spreads terror.”
Yousef Dar, who is a spokesman for Stockport Muslims, also added that resilience does need to be stepped up in mosques.
GMP Assistant Chief Constable Rob Potts said: “Although there is no specific intelligence to suggest that any places of worship will be at greater risk than other areas where large numbers of people gather, there will be an increase in police patrols close to places of worship in Greater Manchester and we will continue to work with all our communities to reassure them and provide them with security advice and support.”
And Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham commented: “We will continue to work closely with our faith and community leaders and urge anyone with any concerns to speak to their local police officers.”