Man arrested after mosque machete attack at Eid prayers

MORE than a hundred worshippers witnessed a “horrific” machete attack in a mosque as they gathered for Eid prayers yesterday.

The victim, a man in his 20s, was struck with the 3ft blade at the Madni Masjid Islamic Centre in Bradford at about 10am.

He was taken to Bradford Royal Infirmary in a critical condition.

A man was detained in connection with the incident and remains in custody, West Yorkshire Police said.

Both men attended the mosque separately before the attack and it is not being treated as a hate crime or terrorrelated incident, a spokesman said.

A witness said: “It was packed full of worshippers. It is so sad. The victim was airlifted to hospital after the air ambulance landed at the scene and the area

‘People were looking forward to enjoying the day before this horrific incident. The community is stunned’

was cordoned off.” Taj Salam, a Labour councillor, said: “Our thoughts and prayers are with the victim’s family and friends.

“This is a very special day after the 30th day of fasting and people were looking forward to enjoying the day before this horrific incident. The community is stunned by what has happened.”

Chief Supt Rob Mccoubrey said: “Detectives are conducting a number of inquiries into this serious incident today.

“A man remains in police custody after being arrested in connection with the attack on the victim.

“We are not seeking anyone else in connection with what took place and neighbourhood policing team officers are conducting reassurance patrols and speaking with residents in the area.”

The Eid festival marks the end of the month-long fast during Ramadan.