Sir Keir Starmer has expressed concern after a “serious incident” at a mosque in Manchester.
A man was arrested after allegedly entering a mosque during Ramadan prayers carrying several weapons, including an axe.
The suspect, a white man in his 40s, was with another man, a black male, who entered Manchester Central Mosque in the Victoria Park area of south Manchester, at around 8.40pm on Tuesday.
The first suspect was subsequently arrested by police on suspicion of carrying an offensive weapon and possession of class B drugs.
He remains in custody for questioning.
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) say the incident is not being treated as terror-related.
In a statement, the mosque said a “serious security incident” had taken place during prayers.
Sir Keir posted on X: “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.
“My thanks go to the volunteers and emergency services for their quick response.
“We have provided up to £40m 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.”
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The mosque’s statement said a “white male entered wearing a hi-vis jacket carrying a large bag”.
It said he was accompanied by a “black male, both entering the mosque at the same time”.
The statement added: “The mosque volunteers spotted the suspicious bag containing an axe, which was placed into the main hall of the mosque by the assailant.
“The white male was escorted to a separate room by volunteers and was found to have been carrying multiple weapons including a hammer and a knife. He was eventually arrested by the police.
“The black male left the mosque shortly before police arrived, after it became apparent that the situation had been contained. To our knowledge, he has not yet been arrested by Greater Manchester Police.”
All relevant information and CCTV footage has been passed on to the police during the ongoing investigation, the statement said.
It continued: “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.
“Congregants are advised to travel in groups where possible and to ensure that children are not left unattended.
“The swift and responsible actions of our volunteers played a crucial role in containing the situation. Without their intervention, the consequences could have been far more serious.”
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Superintendent Simon Nasim of GMP said: “We have swiftly arrested one individual and officers are working to locate the second man. No threats were made and thankfully, no one was injured.
“You may notice an increased presence of patrols in the area while our inquiries continue. Please feel free to chat with our officers and let them know your concerns.”
Afzal Khan, the local MP for Rusholme, said he is “deeply concerned” about the incident.
He said: “Just this week, the chancellor and home secretary announced more funding for protecting mosques, and this incident demonstrates once again why this funding is so vital.
“This is the consequence of far-right politicians scapegoating Muslims. This is Islamophobia, plain and simple.”
Officers are appealing for witnesses to help with enquiries.
