Increased security for mosques amid rising far-right violence in UK

Following a recent stabbing incident in Southport, U.K., the police are urged to increase patrols around mosques and refugee areas to counter potential far-right attacks.

Stabbing incident sparks security concerns

The recent stabbing in Southport has heightened concerns about potential far-right violence in the U.K. On July 29, a person entered a dance school and carried out a knife attack, resulting in the deaths of three children and injuries to 10 others, including eight children. Police arrested the 17-year-old suspect, believed to have used the knife in the attack.

Although the suspect’s identity was initially withheld, far-right media outlets and social media users spread false claims, stating the attacker was named “Ali” and had entered the country illegally the previous year. The misinformation fueled further unrest.

Far-right groups plan multiple protests

According to The Guardian, far-right groups are planning at least 19 protests across various towns and cities in the coming days. The Southport incident led to a violent demonstration by members of the English Defence League, who attacked the Southport Islamic Society Mosque and clashed with police, resulting in injuries to 53 officers and three police dogs. Four individuals were arrested.

In London, over 100 people were detained during a far-right protest for charges including violence, assault on health care workers, and violation of protest conditions.

Mosque security and community response

Mosque Security, a company dedicated to safeguarding mosques, reported receiving requests for assistance from 100 mosques nationwide in the U.K. The organization is collaborating with partners and leaders to ensure the safety and protection of mosques and the community.

Iman Atta, director of the anti-Muslim hate crime monitoring organization Tell Mama, emphasized the need for increased police presence around mosques and refugee areas. She highlighted the growing online organization of far-right groups and the spread of misinformation and hate against Muslim communities and refugees. Atta urged communities to remain vigilant, calm, and supportive of one another.

Official response to attack

Following the attack, authorities lifted the restriction on disclosing the suspect’s identity. The attacker was identified as Axel Muganwa Rudakubana, born on Aug. 7, 2006, in Cardiff, who moved to Southport in 2013. This revelation aimed to counter the false narratives being circulated.

The increased threat of far-right violence has led to calls for enhanced security measures and police patrols around vulnerable areas. The collaboration between security organizations, police, and community leaders is crucial to preventing further attacks and ensuring the safety of all residents.

‘We will be watching you’

“We will be watching you,” a U.K. Home Office minister warned those planning on organizing further disorder. There is potential for more violence in the wake of the Southport attack, a Home Office minister has said.

Asked how concerned the U.K. government is about the prospect of further disorder on the streets this weekend, David Hanson told LBC Radio:

There is that potential. But I always say to anybody who’s organising this, we will be watching you. If you are organising this now, we will be watching you.

We have powers under existing legislation to stop you organising this now and to take action accordingly, and if you do take action and are not part of any organised group, be prepared to face the full force of the law on this criminal activity.”

Asked whether those involved are from the far right, he said:

Some individuals will have far-right opinions, in my view, some might be caught up in the summer madness. Some might be people who’ve got genuine concerns. Whatever those concerns are, there are mechanisms where they can raise them with their member of parliament, they can peacefully protest and they can take those issues forward.