Turkish community in UK calls for unity amid far-right violence

The British Turkish Association (BTA) issued a call for unity and prudence to the Turkish community in the U.K. Monday, following a series of violent incidents carried out by far-right extremists.

In a statement, BTA President Murat Sukru Acar stressed the importance of maintaining social peace and harmony, urging the community to resist provocations.

He expressed deep concern over the recent alarming events across various U.K. cities, particularly highlighting the tragic incidents in Southport and the subsequent far-right violence that has caused significant unrest and insecurity among the community.

“These are challenging times, and the importance of unity and solidarity cannot be overstated,” Acar said.

He commended Prime Minister Keir Starmer and government officials for their efforts to combat violence and uphold social order.

Acar also noted that the police are intensifying security measures nationwide to prevent further incidents.

However, he emphasized that the Turkish community also has a crucial role to play.

“Every member of our community should be vigilant against provocations, and we must unite,” he stated.

“By acting together, we will be better equipped to overcome these threats.”

Acar urged the community to maintain unity and avoid falling victim to provocations to protect social peace and harmony.

The violence has been exacerbated by anti-Muslim disinformation on social media following a fatal stabbing in Southport on July 29, which resulted in the deaths of three young girls.

False reports circulated by far-right extremist accounts incorrectly identified the suspect as a Muslim and migrant, fueling Islamophobic rhetoric and violence.

The recent riots, some of the worst the U.K. has seen in recent years, have led to over 400 arrests nationwide.