Police increase patrols around mosques and Islamic centres in bid to reassure communities

Last night, police received a report of a disturbance involving a large group of people at the Islamic Centre on Sidney Street close to Manchester city centre

Patrols around mosques and Islamic centres across Greater Manchester have been increased in response to weekend incidents in Manchester city centre.

At around 11.20pm last night (Sunday), police received a report of a disturbance involving a large group of people at the Islamic Centre on Sidney Street close to the city centre.

Officers attended and established that one man had sustained a small cut to his face whilst external walls of the building and a vehicle parked outside had been vandalised, with graffiti making reference to recent events in Iran.

One man has been arrested on suspicion of criminal damage and remains in police custody for questioning.

Earlier in the day, there had been disturbances during protests in the centre.

Superintendent Ian Jones, of GMP’s City of Manchester district, said: “We understand the concern these incidents will cause our communities so have increased patrols in locations of significance, both to reassure people and keep them safe.

“Meanwhile, enquiries are ongoing in relation to the disturbances - with officers following a number of lines of enquiry to identify those responsible for these crimes and send a clear message that this behaviour will not be tolerated in Greater Manchester.”

Anyone with information should contact GMP via gmp.police.uk or 101 quoting 3373 25/09/22.

Information can also be shared anonymously via the independent charity - Crimestoppers - on 0800 555 111.

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