A Kirklees councillor is calling for action and heightened security at local mosques in light of a recent incident.
Last week, police rushed to Manchester Central Mosque following reports that two individuals ‘armed with an axe and a knife’ had entered the premises during Ramadan prayers. Two men were arrested.
Darren Connor (14/12/1970), has since been charged with possession of an offensive weapon without lawful authority or reasonable excuse. He pleaded not guilty to this allegation at Manchester Magistrates’ Court on 27 February, according to the BBC and other news outlets.
At the same time, Connor was also charged with possession of cannabis which he admitted. The case has been referred to the Crown Court. The second man arrested will face no further action.
The situation has caused great concern closer to home, with Cllr Imran Safdar (Independent, Crosland Moor and Netherton) contacting West Yorkshire Police and Safer Kirklees to organise a meeting regarding precautions, safety and guidance. The councillor has urged mosques to be “vigilant” and review their existing security measures.
Councillor Safdar said: “Sadly, not every place of worship in Kirklees has the budget to have security guards present. Of course we call out and condemn attacks on any places of worship but I’m especially concerned about places of worship from the Muslim faith here in Kirklees. Please stay safe, stay vigilant, and report any incidents to your local police…”
He added: “Discrimination, bullying and crimes linked to anti-Muslim hatred are unacceptable and must be tackled with the same vigour as the equally worrying problem of antisemitism.”
DCI Oliver Coates of Kirklees Police, said on 27 February: “We are aware that Wednesday’s incident in Manchester will have deeply affected our local Muslim faith communities, particularly during Ramadan.
“Neighbourhood Policing Officers have been engaging with mosques and speaking with Elders to discuss any local concerns.
“Our mosques continue to receive specific patrols as places of worship and reassurance work with our communities will continue over the coming days.”
A spokesperson for Kirklees Council said: “We fully understand the concerns of the local community and we are working with the police to ensure local mosques are receiving the appropriate guidance and additional support.
“We encourage all local faith establishments to consider security needs and to seek advice where it is needed. Any faith-based organisations who are concerned about safety will receive a prompt response. They can contact their local neighbourhood policing team Kirklees | West Yorkshire Police.”
