Manchester Mosque Seeks Enhanced Police Support Following Armed Intruder Incident
The chairman of Manchester Central Mosque has called for a heightened police presence in the wake of what the Prime Minister described as a "concerning" event, where an armed individual entered the premises during Ramadan prayers. Hammad Khan made the appeal after the arrest of a white man in his 50s, who was apprehended wearing high-visibility clothing and found in possession of an axe, a knife, and a hammer.
Greater Manchester Police have confirmed that, while they are collaborating with Counter Terrorism Police to probe the matter, the incident has not been classified as a terrorist act. The suspect is currently detained on suspicion of possessing an offensive weapon and class B drugs. Authorities are also searching for a second individual, a black male believed to have accompanied the suspect but departed before police arrival.
Details of the Suspicious Entry and Arrest
According to Mr. Khan, volunteers at the mosque managed to engage the suspect in conversation until law enforcement arrived, preventing any escalation. One witness reported hearing the man exclaim, "I'm not a terrorist!" as he was taken into custody. The incident occurred around 8:30 PM on Tuesday in the Victoria Park area of south Manchester, where approximately 1,500 worshippers were observing Ramadan prayers.
The suspect was described as "very calm" and not under the influence of substances. He had previously been seen visiting the mosque. Upon entry, an axe was discovered in his bag, prompting volunteers to escort him to an office and contact the police. In addition to the weapons, he carried "other materials" related to the Second World War and some newspaper cuttings, which have been seized by authorities.
Community Concerns and Official Responses
Mr. Khan expressed disappointment over the lack of visible police patrols, emphasizing the need for enhanced security during Ramadan, when prayers extend late into the night. He noted a recent surge in hate mail and threats targeting the local Muslim community, underscoring the urgency for protective measures.
In a statement, Sir Keir Starmer acknowledged the incident's potential to cause alarm among Muslim communities during a period of peace and reflection. He highlighted government funding of up to £40 million for additional security at mosques, Muslim schools, and community centres, reaffirming a commitment to safeguarding communities from fear.
The mosque itself issued a statement describing the event as a "serious security incident" and pointed to a broader trend of increased hostility and threats faced by Muslims in recent years.
Police Investigation and Ongoing Efforts
Assistant Chief Constable John Webster of Greater Manchester Police provided further details, indicating that the call came in at around 8:40 PM due to concerns from security staff about a white man in a high-vis jacket carrying a bag with an axe inside. The man had claimed to be there for building work, but staff were unaware of any such arrangements.
ACC Webster stated that there was no evidence of threats or confrontation with the congregation, but acknowledged the suspicious and concerning nature of the behaviour. Police have increased patrols around mosques during Ramadan and are reviewing CCTV and body-worn video to identify the second suspect, described as a black man in his late 40s with an athletic build, wearing layered hoodies and tracksuit bottoms.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Greater Manchester Police via 101 or their website's LiveChat function, or anonymously through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
