Two men have been arrested over a hate crime after a pig's head was thrown onto the roof of a mosque and community centre. Police carried out three raids in Stockport this morning (December 14).
The two men arrested, aged 22 and 47, remain in police custody for questioning, says Greater Manchester Police. The pair have been arrested in connection with a hate crime that took place outside a place of worship on Battersea Road, Stockport on December 9.
Worshippers at the Heatons Muslims Community Trust (HMCT) in Heaton Mersey, which contains a mosque as well as community facilities, made the grim discovery as they left a gathering at around 9.15pm on Friday night. The animal's head had been placed on a low, flat part of the building's roof meaning it was easily visible, the Manchester Evening News reported in the following days.
Following the execution of the three warrants early this morning, Detective Inspector Gareth Beasley of GMP’s Stockport division said: "Hate crimes are abhorrent and have no place in civil society. Today’s action sends a clear message that GMP will leave no stone unturned in order to hold those responsible for such offences to account and demonstrates to our communities that hate crime will never be tolerated.
"Hate crime can take many different forms – violence, offensive letters, damage to your property etc, but none of it is acceptable", said the force. "If you or someone you know has been a victim of hate crime, we encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police or a support agency so you can get the help and support available.
"Anyone with information about this incident should contact GMP quoting 3246 09/12/22. Information can also be shared anonymously via the independent charity – Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
"Greater Manchester Police stands together against hate crime. We all have a right to live without fear, hostility, and intimidation from others because of who we are. @gmvictims offers help and support to those who have been victim of hate crime. You can report hate crime via 101 or online. Always call 999 in an emergency."
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