The release of terrorist suspects
Two of those arrested on suspicion of terrorist activities have now been released on the orders of a judge, although it is said that police wanted to detain them for longer. They are saying through their solicitor that the reason for their arrest has not been explained to them. In particular nothing was mentioned about the lurid plot circulating about the abduction and execution, Iraq style, of a Muslim.
Clearly by taking action the police are carrying out their duty to protect the community. However the political case for extending the 28 days to 90 which MPs voted against isn't supported. Like Walthamstow a mystery hangs in the air. It will reinforce feelings of victimisation and alienation among Moslems, well it does that for me too. It is now highly political with Blair being chastised for not visiting the community when he was just down the road the other day, and Cameron popping up at the Birmingham Central Mosque. While Cameron criticised remarks by the leader of the Mosque, Dr Naseem, the comments wer not far removed from similar sentiments from the former Anglican Bishop of Birmingham, Dr John Sentamu.
Tailpiece: One of those arrested and released was interviewed by the BBC. He still does not know why he was arrested and says that no mention was made in reference to stories of abduction. He does speak about the terror experiences by his family when police raided in the early hours. Is any thought given to the effects this kind of experience leaves with children? Are they likely to grow up feeling they belong, or will they harbour a sense of alienation?
" 'they don't realise that, after seven days of virtual torture for my family, it's going to be hard to readjust,' he (Abu Bakr) added.
'This is going to affect me for the rest of my life.'
Mr Bakr said his parents had told him they had aged 10 years while he had been in custody.
'
'Now who is going to replace that?' he said."
Source BBC News.
If the Government is looking for cohesion and integration, as it says it is, then I think it ought to try another route.
Posted by John Tyrrell at February 7, 2007 8:57 AM
