Originally posted on
Local Gov
Local leaders in Manchester have issued a joint statement expressing ‘deep concern’ after two men carrying a bag containing weapons walked into Manchester Central Mosque.
Assistant Chief Constable John Webster of the Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said officers were called following concerns raised by mosque security staff about a man acting suspiciously with a bag containing an axe during Ramadan prayers.
Police attended within 15 minutes, searched the suspect and arrested him. Weapons including an axe and other items were seized. There was no evidence of threats or confrontation with worshippers, according to GMP.
ACC Webster said the safety of worshippers is a priority and that increased patrols are being deployed to offer reassurance to the Muslim community.
He added that officers are continuing to question the detained man and are working to identify a second person reported to have been present.
The leader of Manchester City Council, Cllr Bev Craig, Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham and Deputy Mayor Kate Green said in a joint statement that the incident was ‘a cause of deep concern’.
This article was originally posted on LocalGov, where it can be read in full.
Image: Openverse
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