News, views and top stories in your inbox. Don't miss our must-read newsletter Sign up Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Invalid Email

A street magician had his head chopped off by Islamic State thugs for entertaining passers-by with his tricks.

The talented performer, loved by children, was dragged away while performing in the jihadists’ “capital” of Raqqa in Syria.

He was later beheaded in a public square after his harmless stunts, similar to those of Bradford-born superstar Dynamo, were deemed to insult Islam.

A local who fled to safety in Turkey called his murder “barbarism and butchery.”

(Image: Camera Press)

The street magician was arrested by IS thugs during an impromptu 'show' on a street corner as he tried to bring some much-needed cheer to the Syrian city.

He was beheaded in public in a square after the religious fanatics branded his harmless tricks as anti-Islam and an insult to God because they created 'illusions and falsehood'.

They denounced the terrified magician's show as haram - or forbidden by the Koran - because it was idle entertainment and kept locals from praying and attending the mosque.

The activist who fled said: "The magician was a popular man who entertained people with little tricks on the street like making coins or phone disappear.

"He was just called Sorcerer by people and children loved him. He was doing nothing anti-Islamic but he paid for it with his life.

(Image: Reuters)

"This is the reality of life in Raqqa, murdered in the name of Allah for performing a few tricks."

Raqqa was once one of the most liberal and tolerant places in Syria with a mix of religions living side-by-side.

It boasted a casino since smashed by IS troops.

Even the local barber shops have been closed down to prevent men cutting

their beards.

Taxi drivers face a flogging if they take a longer route on a journey as this would use up time the occupants could spend in a mosque.