Worcester Muslims warned not to walk alone amid UK riots

Worcester Mosque has issued safety advice to its community after many raised concerns over the rise in targeted attacks on Muslims and ethnic minorities amid UK riots.

Haris Saleem, president of  Worcester Muslim Welfare Association, said he is thankful there have been no reported attacks in the city.

However, he said the city's Muslims are still fearful due to rising far-right tensions around England sparked by social media misinformation about the person responsible for the death of three girls in Southport. 

There have been riots and unrest in towns and cities such as Southport, Rotherham, Middlesborough, Tamworth and Plymouth.

"It is concerning - everyone is concerned," he said.

"In this country, we all live in peace and harmony, and when something like this happens, it is a complete concern for everyone.

"We are more concerned for women and the elderly.

"My daughter works in Birmingham, and there was even concern if she could go.

Abu Bakr, Haris Saleem (chair of Worcester Muslim Welfare Association) and Imam Khalil Jibran. (Image: Newsquest) "I would advise people to be vigilant and keep away from large groups and be careful on public transport."

Worcester Muslim Welfare Association has been regularly liaising with police officers and Mr Saleem said he is extremely thankful for their help. 

West Mercia Police told the association they will do everything they can to protect people and diffuse any situations that arise in the city. 

JazakAllah Khayran, also a member of the Worcester Muslim Association, offered practical advice to ensure the community's safety.

These included ensuring people were not alone on the streets - especially females and particularly at night.

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The advice included not going near any protests, marches, or individuals of the far right and avoiding counter-protests.

Mr Khayran added: "Do not engage with far-right, racist individuals who are trying to provoke you, check in on your close family and friends and report all hate crimes to the police.

"Keep safe. Take precautions. Be Vigilant."

A spokesperson for West Mercia Police said their focus remains on strong community policing within the counties they cover. 

It said: “We want to offer reassurance that we are linked in with in the national planning around any response to disorder.

"Our focus firmly remains on strong community policing within the counties we cover which includes working closely with partnership agencies and community groups.”