The news that Shaykh Farouqui has been released without charge has been warmly received by the Bolton Muslim community. BCoM has always condemned in the strongest terms possible any vicious and cowardly acts of terrorism against innocent civilians. We have joined with all Boltonions in calling for the swift apprehension and punishment of the perpetrators of terrorism. No cause could ever be assisted by such immoral acts

The release of Shaykh Farooqui corroborates the stance taken by BCoM and the Bolton Muslim community in believing Shaykh Farooqui  innocent of any crime and in offering full and unequivocal support to him and his family.

The release confirms that there is no evidence to support the allegation that he was involved in any terrorism activity. Indeed Shaykh Farooqui has for over thirty years advocated peace, tolerance, harmony and respect for the law of this country and propagated Islam as a religion of peace.

While the community understand and fully respect the need for the Police to conduct both enquires and investigation into any acts or potential acts of terrorism, it is important that any actions are responsible, based on robust evidence and cognisant of the impact on community cohesion. This ill advised arrest has had a huge impact on the communities’ confidence in all the agencies advocating the arrest. Bolton Muslims are   frustrated and disappointed.

We commend the Muslim community for responding in a rational, mature and peaceful manner using the democratic process and acting within the law.

End