Oldham ex-mayor 'deeply concerned' over Manchester mosque incident
Former Oldham mayor Dr Zahid Chauhan has expressed 'deep concerns' following an incident at Manchester Central Mosque where a man was arrested on suspicion of possessing an offensive weapon and class B drugs. The incident occurred at approximately 8:40pm on February 24 when a white male in a high-viz jacket entered the mosque during Taraweeh prayers with a large bag. Greater Manchester Police arrested a man in his 50s and seized weapons including an axe and knife. Assistant Chief Constable John Webster confirmed the incident is not being treated as terrorism but is being investigated by Counter Terrorism Policing North West. Police are also seeking a second suspect described as a black man in his late 40s wearing a grey hoody and navy blue jacket.