Huge increase in anti-Muslim incidents following murder

The killing of soldier Lee Rigby has led to a huge increase in anti-Muslim incidents, according to an organisation that works to reduce extremism.
Before the attack, Faith Matters was dealing with about four to eight cases a day to its helpline, but there have been about 150 incidents reported since the attack in Woolwich on Wednesday, ranging from graffiti and abusive comments to attacks on mosques.
Director Fiyaz Mughal told BBC Radio Five Live: “What’s really concerning is the spread of these incidents. They’re coming in from right across the country.
“Secondly, some of them are quite aggressive, very focused, very aggressive attacks. And thirdly, there also seems to be significant online activity… suggesting co-ordination of incidents and attacks against institutions or places where Muslims congregate.”
Hundreds of police are working to keep the peace today between the English Defence League (EDL) and their opponents at a demonstration in Newcastle.
The group, which clashed with police at the scene of Lee Rigby’s murder on Wednesday, had called the national demonstration months ago.
Northumbria Police said they were confident an EDL parade through the city centre would pass peacefully, but Chief Superintendent Gary Calvert said he was aware the murder “may have heightened community concerns”.
Hundreds of police officers will be on the streets and 10 horses will be on loan from West Yorkshire police, including Bud, who was punched when Newcastle and Sunderland fans clashed last month.
Some roads will be closed, but Chief Supt Calvert said: “Newcastle will be open for business – shops and pubs will operate as normal.”
Several people have been arrested in the wake of the killing and three are due to appear before magistrates today.

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