Community leaders in Lincoln condemn Paris attacks

Smoke is seen at left as French police special forces launch their assault at a kosher supermarket Credit: Reuters

Community leaders in Lincoln have joined together in their condemnation of the terrorist attacks in France.

Twelve journalists working for the newspaper Charlie Hebdo, based in Paris, were killed by gunmen on Wednesday.

According to the latest news, French police stormed two hostage sites in the north of the city today with the hostage takers being reported dead.

Councillor Rosanne Kirk, Portfolio Holder for Social Inclusion and Community Cohesion at City of Lincoln Council, said: “These acts of violence are acts against humanity.

“Attacks like this want to divide communities and drive fear into them. We must not and will not let them achieve their goal.

“We live in a society that should be tolerant of different religions and enjoy the diversity this brings to our communities.

“It is imperative that we show solidarity, respect and understanding, not only at this time but in each day of our lives.”

Dr Tanweer Ahmed, Chair of the Islamic Association of Lincoln and Chair of Lincoln Community Cohesion Steering group, said: “The attacks have been condemned by Muslims across the world and our prayers and thoughts go to the families of those who died and were injured.

“I’d also like to praise Ahmed Merabet, a Muslim police officer, who gave his life in protecting those who poked fun at his religion.

French intervention police take up position near the scene of a hostage taking at a kosher supermarket earlier today Credit: Reuters

“I urge all Muslims and non-Muslims to stand together, remain united and challenge and defeat the terrorists whose only aim is to divide us in this difficult time.

“The Quran says, “Whosoever kills an innocent human being, it shall be as if he has killed all mankind, and whosoever saves the life of one, it shall be as if he had saved the life of all mankind."

Jammil Ahmed, University of Lincoln Students' Union Islamic Society President, said: “In unison with reasonable thought, the acts are to be condemned.

“Commensurate with freedom of expression and contrary to popular belief, Islam encourages debate and critical analysis.

“The acts were unjustifiable. As a student Islamic Society, we welcome the opportunity to speak out against such mindless violence.”