Man Arrested at Manchester Central Mosque During Ramadan Prayers
Police in Manchester have arrested a suspect after he allegedly entered Manchester Central Mosque "acting suspiciously" and carrying an offensive weapon during Ramadan evening prayers. The incident occurred on Tuesday evening, prompting a significant police response and the evacuation of approximately 5,000 worshippers.
Details of the Arrest and Incident
Officers were called at about 8:40 PM to reports that two men had entered the mosque on Upper Park Road and were behaving suspiciously. Upon arrival, police arrested a man in his 40s on suspicion of carrying an offensive weapon and possession of class B drugs. He remains in custody for questioning. The second man was not apprehended, and authorities are appealing for information.
A witness described the suspect as being in his late 40s and entering the mosque armed with an axe. Four people quickly restrained the suspect and hit him with a fire extinguisher. About 15 police cars responded to the scene, but thankfully, nobody was injured during the incident.
Police Response and Community Safety
Supt Simon Nasim of the City of Manchester Central district stated, "Yesterday evening officers attended a local mosque after it was reported that two men were acting suspiciously and carrying an offensive weapon while people were worshipping during the holy month of Ramadan." He emphasized that no threats were made and no one was hurt, but patrols will be increased in the area to reassure the community.
Nasim added, "There is no place for weapons on our streets and we are committed to ensure all our communities feel safe to worship in peace and go about their daily lives without fear. Anyone committing such offences will be dealt with in accordance with the law."
Mosque Statement and Broader Context
In a statement, the mosque revealed that volunteers had spotted a suspicious bag and escorted one of the men into a side room. All relevant information and CCTV footage have been handed over to the police. The statement highlighted concerns over rising Islamophobic incidents, noting, "The Muslim community in the UK has experienced a notable rise in threats and hostility over recent years. The increase in Islamophobic incidents is a serious concern, and greater resources are urgently needed to address this growing and real risk."
The mosque urged attendees to remain vigilant, travel in groups where possible, and ensure children are not left unattended. They praised the swift actions of their volunteers, stating that without their intervention, the consequences could have been far more serious.
Timing and Political Implications
This incident occurred a week after Ramadan began and the day before constituents in south-east Greater Manchester were due to vote in the Gorton and Denton byelection. Labour, the Greens, and Reform UK are all competing for the seat, adding a political dimension to community safety discussions.
Videos circulating online show a heavy police presence outside the mosque in the Victoria Park area, underscoring the seriousness with which authorities are treating the matter. The investigation continues as police work to locate the second suspect.
