A Manchester mosque has suffered a third arson attack in three years earlier in July, which Greater Manchester Police have confirmed they are now investigating as a hate crime. Nasfat Mosque, an affiliate of the Muslim Council of Britain, had 30 firefighters and 5 fire engines tackle the blaze which has left the building gutted.

Deen Moyodele, Nasfat mosque spokesperson, said, “The arson attack was so devastating. We are very active in the local community, participating in all community events in order to promote cohesion and we welcome dialogue with all. But whoever carried out this attack are unfortunately nothing but cowards.”

A peace walk in Manchester was held last week with participants from multi-faith communities across Manchester attending to show solidarity. No arrests have been made yet and so the arsonist is still at large and a threat to the public. Nasfat mosque has launched a crowdfunding plea for £50,000 to repair and reopen the premises within 8-12 months. This can be found online at: www.crowdfunder.co.uk/standagainsth8