Man arrested over arson at places of worship in Leeds

Thursday, 7 June 2018 07:00

Detectives investigating two linked arson attacks on places of worship in Leeds have arrested a man.

The 42-year-old was arrested at an address in Leeds on suspicion of arson in relation to the fires started at the front doors of the Jamia Masjid Abu Huraira Mosque, in Hardy Street, Beeston, and the Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Jatha Gurdwara, in Lady Pit Lane, in the early hours of Tuesday (5 June) morning.

West Yorkshire Police said enquiries into the incidents are ongoing.

Detective Inspector Richard Holmes, of Leeds District CID, said: “We are continuing to progress the investigation and the man in custody will be interviewed about the incidents today.

“We are continuing to carry out extensive enquiries, including a detailed trawl of CCTV in the areas surrounding both incidents.

“We are still very keen to hear from anyone who witnessed anything suspicious at either location or who saw any person or vehicles around the time the incidents have occurred between 3am and 4am.

“We are continuing to liaise with our colleagues in the local neighbourhood policing team who are maintaining an increased presence in the area and having regular contact with key representatives from the communities affected to keep them updated and to reassure the wider community.”

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