Father of schoolgirl feared to have joined Islamic State denies 'extremism' claim

The father of a schoolgirl feared to have joined Islamic State has insisted he is not an extremist after he went to a protest in which an American flag was burned.

Abase Hussen spoke of his regret at joining the demonstration outside the US Embassy in 2012, according to reports.

Michael Adebowale - one of Fusilier Lee Rigby's killers - is also said to have been present at the rally against controversial film Innocence of Muslims.

Images of Mr Hussen at the demonstration emerged after his 15-year-old daughter Amira Abase and two teenage friends went missing from their family homes in east London, prompting an international police hunt.

Mr Hussen told The Times:

He apologised for his involvement and said he disagreed with flag burning, according to the newspaper.

Bethnal Green Academy pupils Amira, Shamima Begum and Kadiza Sultana are believed to be inside Syria after flying to Turkey on a well-trodden path to the country.