12th July 2013
The Muslim Council of Britain is monitoring unfolding developments in Tipton where an explosion is said to have occurred nearby a mosque. This is the second such incident after a mosque in neighbouring Walsall was the subject of a makeshift bomb attack.
We urge for calm as the police authorities conduct its investigations. We are heartened by the decision by the Metropolitan Police enhanced police presence around Mosques during Ramadan to reassure communities and ensure public safety. We hope this is being done at a national level.
In the meantime it is important for all communities to come together in solidarity, support and vigilance.
Be vigilant and report
It is paramount, first and foremost, to report any attacks to the police. We urge those affected to call 999 and report the incident immediately. Likewise, we urge police authorities to record these incidents with due care and subsequent investigation.
The police is the first port-of-call. But those affected may also wish to report to the many third-party reporting bodies who can relay the incident on their behalf. We list the organisations who do this below.
Please also take the necessary steps to protect your institutions. Our guidelines can be found below.
[END]
Notes to Editors:
1. The Muslim Council of Britain is the UK’s largest Muslim umbrella body with over 500 affiliated national, regional and local organisations, mosques, charities and schools.
2. Related MCB links
3. Suggested organisations to approach to report Islamophobic hate crimes