Rochdale Council of Mosques urge all to support authorities in fight against extremism

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Imam Irfan Chishti MBE
Rochdale Council of Mosques

Following the release without charge of the Rochdale family arrested near the Syria border, the Rochdale Council of Mosques (RCM) has said that the fight against all forms of radicalisation and extremism isn’t just for police and security services, it needs the full support of members of all communities.

A spokesman said: "Whilst we are satisfied that the individuals concerned in this matter have been released without charge, we wish to reiterate our support for the authorities and our view that the fight against all forms of radicalisation and extremism isn’t just for police and security services, it needs the full support of members of all communities and we have a duty to support them in their work.

"Educating our youth against adopting extremist views and pursuing a path towards radicalisation is essential for an integrated society where we all live and work alongside each other as one community. Young people may be experiencing vulnerabilities which put them in a position where they indulge in some of the ideas of grievance and it is therefore important that we all work together to understand what these issues and vulnerabilities are, and address them through the correct channels.

"Individuals and groups which promote hatred and intolerance do not represent Islam or the Muslim community and we wish to reassure communities that we will work with the authorities to maintain public confidence and build resilience against all forms of extremism through proactive community support and engagement.

"The media scaremongering and negative press about Rochdale has meant a tense situation amongst communities. We would urge all to show respect and allow the family time to get back to normality."

http://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/95355/britons-arrested-after-trying-to-enter-wartorn-syria-released-without-charge