Prominent lawyer tells of death threats after calling for unity

The pressure ... to protect myself from the fanatics has been enormous. AAMER ANWAR

A prominent human rights lawyer said he has received death threats after calling for unity within Scotland’s Muslim community.

Aamer Anwar said he was taking the threats from “fanatics” extremely seriously and had contacted police, who were investigating.

Last week, Mr Anwar chaired an event at Glasgow Central Mosque calling for unity and condemning violence and extremism in the wake of the killing of shopkeeper Asad Shah and recent terrorist attacks in Brussels and Lahore.

Mr Anwar said: “Having been a campaigner for human rights for over 25 years, I have grown used to the bile and hatred directed at me, sadly that is par for the course.

“On occasion when I have had my life seriously threatened, I have informed the police but have always chosen to keep it private.

“On this occasion I could no longer remain silent, because of a small minority who believe they can silence me by creating a climate of fear.”

The lawyer said that over the last few weeks “abuse and hatred” had been whipped up on social media, and he had received calls in the middle of the night.

“I hold these people directly responsible for creating an atmosphere which has given some the confidence to make threats to my life,” he said.

“With a young family I could be forgiven if I had chosen to shut up and walk away.

“The pressure from the community, friends and family to protect myself from the fanatics has been enormous.”

A spokeswoman for Police Scotland said: “We can confirm that police are investigating these threats and our inquiries are continuing.”