LONDON: An armed man entered a mosque in Manchester during evening prayers in the holy month of Ramadan and reportedly threatened the prayer leader before being arrested, police and mosque officials said on Wednesday.
Greater Manchester Police said the suspect, a man in his 40s, was arrested on suspicion of possessing an offensive weapon and Class B drugs after the incident at Manchester Central Mosque in the Victoria Park area on Tuesday evening.
The case is not currently being treated as terrorism-related, police said.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer voiced concern over the incident.
The Prime Minister said he recognised that the incident would cause concern among Muslim communities.
The suspect, a white man in his 40s, was accompanied by another individual described as a black male when they entered Manchester Central Mosque in the Victoria Park area of south Manchester at approximately 8:40pm on Tuesday.
The first suspect was later arrested on suspicion of possessing an offensive weapon and Class B drugs. He remains in police custody for questioning.
Greater Manchester Police said the incident is not currently being treated as terrorism-related.
“I am concerned to hear of the incident at Manchester Central Mosque last night. I know this will be worrying for Muslim communities, especially during Ramadan, a time of peace and reflection,” Keir said.
“My thanks go to the volunteers and emergency services for their quick response,” he added.
“We have provided up to £40 million funding for additional security at mosques, Muslim schools and community centres, and will continue to act to ensure communities are able to live without fear.”
In a statement, the mosque said a “serious security incident” had occurred during prayers.
According to the statement, a white male entered the mosque wearing a high-visibility jacket and carrying a large bag.
He was accompanied by a black male, and both individuals entered the premises at the same time. Mosque volunteers noticed the suspicious bag, which was later found to contain an axe that had been placed inside the main prayer hall by the assailant.
The statement further highlighted that the Muslim community in the UK has experienced a notable rise in threats and hostility in recent years.
It described the increase in Islamophobic incidents as a “serious concern” and urged that greater resources be allocated urgently to address this growing and real risk.
“We will continue to cooperate fully with the police and urge all mosque attendees to remain vigilant.
Congregants are advised to travel in groups where possible and to ensure that children are not left unattended.”
