Oldham ex-mayor 'deeply concerned' over Manchester mosque incident

Police arrested a man at Manchester Central Mosque during evening prayers on Tuesday after he entered carrying a large bag and wearing a high-visibility jacket. Worshippers at the Victoria Park mosque, near Manchester's curry mile, called police when the man claimed to be there for building work but staff had no knowledge of any scheduled maintenance.

Officers seized weapons including an axe and knife, along with class B drugs, from the suspect described as a white man in his 50s. Former Oldham mayor Dr Zahid Chauhan expressed 'deep concerns' about the incident, stating that 'a place of worship must always be a place of safety' and that 'no community should feel unsafe while praying'.

Greater Manchester Police say they're not treating the incident as terrorism but have involved Counter Terrorism detectives to explore all possibilities. Assistant Chief Constable John Webster confirmed they're also seeking a second suspect-a black man in his late 40s with an athletic build who was seen acting suspiciously at the same time.

The arrest has heightened concerns among Muslim communities during Ramadan, with police increasing patrols around mosques. The suspect remains in custody for questioning on suspicion of possessing offensive weapons and class B drugs. Officers are reviewing CCTV footage and appealing for witnesses to help identify the second man described as wearing a grey hoody with double hood and blue tracksuit bottoms.