Hartlepool Muslim community condemns 'barbaric and inhumane' London Bridge terror attack

Jack Merritt, 25, and Saskia Jones, 23, were stabbed to death by convicted terrorist Usman Khan, 28, at a prisoner rehabilitation conference in London on Friday. Three others were also injured.

Members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community at Nasir Mosque, Hartlepool, offered their “deepest sympathies and condolences” to all those affected by “yet another barbaric and inhumane attack”.

Mr Tahir Selby, Imam of the Nasir Mosque at Brougham Terrace, said “We were shocked and appalled by the brutality and disregard for human life and cannot understand what possesses anyone to do such a terrible thing.

He added: “We held a Peace Seminar only last Sunday to promote peace, justice and harmony and bring people together, but then such terrible acts like this, undo all the efforts that we make to create a peaceful society.

“In my speech about establishing peace through justice, I explained that the religion of Islam has nothing to do with terrorism, it is people who misuse the religion of Islam to promote terrorism.

“The religion of Islam promotes peace and justice and the Holy Qur'an in Chapter 2, verse 257 makes this very clear by stating ‘there should be no compulsion in religion, surely the right way has become distinct from error’.

“I wish these terrorists learn what the true teachings of Islam states and learn from the beautiful teachings of Islam and the example of our beloved Holy Prophet, which establishes peace and justice, not hate and terror.

“I want to reassure all the lovely people of Hartlepool that we will continue to explain the true teachings of Islam to everyone, Muslims and non-Muslims and condemn any barbaric action like this, whoever does it, and stand shoulder to shoulder with everyone who wants peace and love.

Mr Selby said the community’s motto is 'Love for All, Hatred for None' and members were instilled to “always be helpful and be tolerant of each other”.

He added: “It is our duty as God-fearing people to keep establishing peace and justice and condemn such bad actions of man.”