Updated 24 May 2013

Yesterday, Thursday 23rd May, as the wiladat programme of Imam Ali (as) was concluding, petrol soaked rags were thrown into the compound of Zainabia Islamic Centre, Milton Keynes. Fortunately, the fire was speedily extinguished. No one was hurt and there was no damage to the Centre.

Shabir Sabur, President of the Jamaat, has said: "Such acts committed by individuals or groups can never divide the nation. We are very much aware of the risks posed to us and we have made extra security arrangements. We have excellent relations with our local police and they had been in contact with me prior to the incident. They have increased their patrol of the area and we are reassured by this. When we reported the attack, there was a swift response within minutes.”

Peter Geary, cabinet member for communities at Milton Keynes Council, said: "I am appalled by this incident, and am sure every resident in Milton Keynes will be appalled by this. One of Milton Keynes' great strengths is the partnerships we've built across communities, and I urge local people to build on these strong relationships in response to this pointless and cowardly act."

The National Association of Muslim Police (NAMP) has prepared important security guidance for all Mosques in the UK, and it is important that we develop good working relationships with our local communities and police networks, who are supporting us at this difficult time.

The Council of European Jamaats and The World Federation calls on our communities to remain calm at this time of heightened tension. Let us remember the teaching of Imam Ali (as) “He who has mercy on creation, the creator will have mercy on him”. Please do not engage in any dialogue or actions that may bring disrepute to the school of the Holy Ahlulbayt (as) and please do report any attacks to the police as well as TELL MAMA who measure anti-Muslim attacks.