Mosque attacked after vigil for victims of Southport knife attack

Alamy LimitedRioters throw objects at mosque in Southport

NOS News•yesterday, 23:01•Modified yesterday, 23:13

In the northwest English city of Southport, a crowd attacked the local mosque. According to the police, it is believed to be supporters of the far-right English Defence League. They also clashed with police officers.

In the coastal town, there was a knife attack yesterday in a community center where a dance class for children was taking place. Three young girls died from their injuries, another five children are seriously injured in hospital. Two adults were also admitted to hospital in critical condition.

Rumors on social media

A 17-year-old boy from a neighboring village has been arrested. Nothing is known about a motive and little has been revealed about the suspect’s background.

But there is a lot of speculation about him, especially on social media. For example, reports that the perpetrator was an asylum seeker and Muslim were frequently shared.

The police responded to this by stressing that the suspect was born in the UK and that “no one at all” has any interest in speculating at this point. “Some people are using this to bring violence and disorder to our streets.” The BBC reports that the suspect’s parents are from Rwanda and that the boy himself was born in Cardiff.

“It is sickening to see this happen in a community that is reeling from the tragic loss of three young lives,” Assistant Chief Constable Alex Goss said. “Yesterday our police officers and other emergency services personnel were faced with one of the most difficult situations they have ever had to deal with. Today they themselves are being attacked while trying to prevent civil unrest.”

Pelted with stones and bottles

The confrontation between police and the crowd came shortly after a vigil for the victims, which was peaceful.

Then things got rough at a nearby mosque, when people started throwing rocks and bottles at the mosque and also at police officers. Some were wearing balaclavas.

A police van was also set on fire. At least one officer was injured and probably suffered a broken nose.

Riots at mosque in British town of Southport after vigil for victims of knife attack