Police issue statement after video shot near Greater Manchester mosque sparks 'concerns'
manchestereveningnews.co.ukPolice are looking into the circumstances behind a video that shows a group of youths gathering near a mosque in Bury. The clip, which has been widely circulated on social media and via WhatsApp, was filmed inside a car and shows a visitor driving up to the Masjid-e-Bilal on Bury Old Road in Prestwich.
As they arrive they are greeted by a number of young people who appear to be wearing boiler suits and climbing on and off the back of a truck.
There is loud music playing and one youngster can be seen dancing vigorously and gesturing to the driver through their window as they pass. READ MORE: 'Horror' outside Manchester hospital as children's nurse is handcuffed and arrested READ MORE: A caption accompanying the video on many of the social media posts said the youths let off flares as well as playing loud music whilst worshippers were praying inside and that many felt 'intimidated.' 'This behaviour has persisted for two days', it adds.
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) have now confirmed they are aware of the footage, and that they are investigating. In a statement, Assistant Chief Constable Wasim Chaudhry said: “We’re aware of a video circulating online that’s believed to have been filmed close to Prestwich Mosque earlier this week, which has caused concerns. “We’re investigating the circumstances behind it, and we are patrolling local areas to help people feel safe in their communities.
Read more on manchestereveningnews.co.uk