Condolence event for killed shopkeeper Asad Shah cancelled after ‘threats’ made in MOSQUE

UKIP councillor Brian Morris and Bradford MEPs Jane Collins and Mike Hookem were due to gather messages of sympathy and support following the horrific stabbing. They were to be joined by members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim community, but tonight announced that after receiving ‘threats’ the event has been cancelled.

In a statement, one organiser said: “I am hugely disappointed to have to announce that the event which was planned to reach across communities and show how appalled the city of Bradford is that one of its own residents committee this crime cannot go ahead for safety reason.

“Unfortunately, when the book was taken to one mosque in order for people to send their messages of peace and love to the family of the victim after Friday prayers, thinly veiled threats were made which has forced us to take this decision.

“We did not cancel this event lightly because it was our dearest hope that Mr Shah’s loved ones could have something to show that we as a city are devastated by this tragic event and to know that the people of Yorkshire are united in believing that we must rid our communities of these kind of hate crimes.

“However we cannot risk ignoring these threats which could lead to violence and would cause further distress for the community.

Mr Shah left and Tanveer Ahmed of Bradford, the man who has confessed to his murder, right.

Taxi driver Tanveer Ahmed, 32, has admitted killing the 40-year-old Mr Shah in a sectarian attack. In a statement issued through his lawyer, the Bradford taxi driver said: “Asad Shah disrespected the messenger of Islam, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).