British Police Increase Presence in Muslim Areas

August 11, 2006

Source: BBC News

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/4783099.stm

On August 11, 2006 BBC News reported, "The police have increased their presence in areas with Muslim populations in the UK to deter attacks after the latest terror arrests. Officers are investigating a small fire at a mosque in Chester but say it is too early to say whether it was in response to the alleged terror plot.

The small blaze was quickly extinguished and no-one was injured.

The head of the Muslim Council of Britain said Muslims were 'fully behind' efforts to prevent attacks.

Dr Mohammed Abdul Bari said the community supported curbs on terrorism, but warned of 'a distance' growing between them and the police.

Peter Fahey, the communities and diversities spokesman for the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO), said forces would be 'very alive' to any threats.

He added that he was aware that there was a distrust among the Muslim community.

'It is something that we take very very seriously and we are working all the time to break that down,' he said."