As the police are granted more time to question the five individuals apprehended on suspicion of inciting terrorism overseas, the family of Shaikh Asif Farooqui has released a statement expressing their shock and dismay at the arrest of the 62 year old preacher.

The family’s statement reads:

"It is simply incredible to those that know him and his work to imagine he could be involved in the promotion or incitement of any kind of violence.

"It is particularly shocking that, having influenced so many, young and old, male and female, to live as law-abiding, trustworthy citizens, he is now being accused of actions which he has so openly opposed for so long.

"He has always gone out of his way to foster good relations with the local police in order to work together as a community and this makes his arrest all the more disgraceful and unacceptable."

The local MP for Bolton, Dr Brian Iddon has called for calm in the circumstances.

Mr Iddon, speaking of the local community’s horror at the arrest of the well-known and well-respected imam from Deane, Bolton, said:

“I would ask everyone to remain calm.

“This gentleman is very well known. He comes from the Sufi tradition, a branch of Islam which is traditionally very peaceful. That is why the community is so surprised.”

Assistant Chief Constable Dave Thompson of the local police force, acknowledging the sharp reaction from the local community, has moved to reassure them that the police are “working closely with local partners and key contacts to ensure that any relevant information is shared as quickly as possible."

Meanwhile the Al Rahman Mosque in Daubhill, Bolton has started an e-petition calling for the immediate release of Shaikh Asif Farooqui.

Update: See also Freedom Bolton.

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Mahmood   |2009-11-19 12:01:49 May Allah (swt) make it easy on the Sheikh, saddened to read the sufi bit, it alludes and follows that if he wasn't a sufi then he is more likely to be guilty. And they say the PVE agenda is without blemisg and strings...

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