MOSQUE ATTACKS AND PROTESTS OVERNIGHT IN WAKE OF WOOLWICH KILLING

ABOVE: EDL leader Tommy Robinson (left) with supporters at the protest

This is a truly barbaric act that has no basis in Islam and we condemn this unreservedly.

Muslim Council of Britain

23rd May 2013

By Andy Wells

THE Woolwich killing of a soldier has sparked protests and attacks on Mosques during the night.

Two men have been arrested in separate attacks on mosques, while the English Defence League (EDL) took to the streets.

One of those arrested is alleged to gave walked into a mosque in Braintree, Essex, with a knife.

He was arrested on suspicion of attempted arson.

Local MP Brooks Newmark tweeted last night: "Local mosque in Braintree attacked by man with knives and incendiary device. Man arrested. No one injured."

Mr Newmark added: "Just met with leaders of local mosque in Braintree which was attacked this evening. Thanked local police for their swift response."

Essex Police they were investigating the "full circumstances" and said "it would not be appropriate to speculate at this time".

Meanwhile police in Kent were called to reports of criminal damage at a mosque in Canterbury Street, Gillingham, at 8.40pm.

A spokesman said a man is in custody on suspicion of racially-aggravated criminal damage.

EDL supporters congregated at Woolich Arsenal train station and threw bottle at police.

Leader Tommy Robinson said: "They're chopping our soldiers' heads off. This is Islam. That's what we've seen today."

He added: "They've cut off one of our Army's heads off on the streets of London.

"Our next generation are being taught through schools that Islam is a religion of peace.

"It's not. It never has been. What you saw today is Islam.

"Everyone's had enough. There has to be a reaction, for the Government to listen, for the police to listen, to understand how angry this British public are."

ABOVE: Police seal off the scene of the vicious attack

Muslim representatives swiftly condemned the brutal terror attack.

The Muslim Council of Britain said: "This is a truly barbaric act that has no basis in Islam and we condemn this unreservedly. Our thoughts are with the victim and his family.

"We understand the victim is a serving member of the Armed Forces.

"Muslims have long served in this country's Armed Forces, proudly and with honour.

"This attack on a member of the Armed Forces is dishonourable, and no cause justifies this murder."

Mohammed Shafiq from the Ramadhan Foundation added: "I wish to condemn the evil and barbaric crime carried out in Woolwich.

"Our immediate thoughts are with the family and friends of the victims. From whatever angle you see the attack, it was at every level evil."

He added: "The terrorists will never win and succeed in their evil plans."