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A man was being questioned be detectives tonight following a series of attacks on mosques in Birmingham.

A 34-year-old Perry Barr man handed himself into a Birmingham police station and was arrested on suspicion of racially aggravated criminal damage.

A 38-year-old Yardley man was also arrested on suspicion of racially aggravated criminal damage after being detained by members of the community. He was later released without charge and ruled out of the police probe.

(Image: PA)

The investigation continues by West Midlands Police supported by West Midlands Counter Terrorism Unit.

Assistant Chief Constable Matt Ward said: “This is a significant step forward in our enquiries however the investigation continues into the motive for the incidents.

“We are working extremely closely with mosques and local communities around the West Midlands and this will continue.

“It remains incredibly important that we unite together against those who seek to create discord, uncertainty and fear.”

The five Birmingham mosques which had their windows smashed in the early hours of yesterday (Thursday 21 March) between 1.25am and 3.15am. Witton Islamic Centre, Witton Road, Aston, and the Masjid Madrassa Faizal Islam, The Broadway, Perry Bar.

The Al Habib Trust, Birchfield Road, Aston, Jamia Mosque, Albert Road, Aston and the Ghousia Mosque, Slade Road, Erdington were also targeted.

Increased patrols will continue at key locations to reassure communities and security advice is being provided to religious establishments across the West Midlands.