Several people called for calm at the scene

An imam from a Muslim centre close to where this morning’s terror attack took place has been praised for leading calls for people to stay calm and preventing a crowd from harming the Finsbury Park suspect.

People became angry at the scene where one man died and 10 others were injured in North London after the 48-year-old was detained by witnesses.

thumbnail for post ID 6718172 One dead, 10 injured in Finsbury Park terror attack against Muslim worshippers

He was pinned to the floor and people could be heard shouting at him, understandably angry at what they had just seen.

Their anger continued when police turned up to take the man into custody, but others, led by the imam, begged for calm outside Muslim Welfare House.

They put their hands up and formed a small barrier around an officer who was trying to get him into the back of a police van.

Someone in the crowd shouted ‘Why did you do that? Why?’, another shouted ‘dickhead’.

But another shouted: ‘No one touch him. No one.’

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Speaking after the attack, the Muslim Welfare House said in a statement: ‘All of us at Muslim Welfare House sends our thoughts and prayers to the victims and those injured in the major incident at Finsbury Park.

‘The Muslim Community in this area is horrified at this incident and is concerned and shocked at the events.

thumbnail for post ID 6718247 Sadiq Khan leads calls for calm in wake of Finsbury Park terror attack

‘We have worked very hard over decades to build a peaceful and tolerant community here in Finsbury Park and we totally condemn any act of hate that tries to drive our wonderful community apart.

‘We would appeal for calm at this time. It is unhelpful for there to be speculation about the incident.

‘All of our efforts should be towards getting justice for the victims and ensuring our community stays the diverse, tolerant and welcome place we know it to be. We call on all, including the media, to act responsibly at this time.

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The suspect was taken to hospital before he is taken to a police station for questioning
A group of Muslims prayed for the victims near the scene soon after the attack happened (Picture: PA)

‘We have already met with the Police, Council and our local MP Jeremy Corbyn. We would like to thank them for their support.

‘Our mosque and welfare centre provides vital support to many people in North London and we will continue to do this despite this incident.

‘Muslim Welfare House has always welcomed the whole community. Only a few days ago we hosted a Great Get Together in memory of Jo Cox, attended by people of every faith and background.

‘I would like to particularly thank our Imam Mohammed Mahmoud, whose bravery and courage helped calm the immediate situation after the incident and prevented further injuries and potential loss of life.

‘The Police should be given time to do their job. We will issue another statement later when more information has emerged.’

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