A Northampton faith group has condemned the killing of a serving soldier in Woolwich, saying the attack has “no place” in any religion.
The Northampton Inter Faith Forum (NIFF) spoke out after the murder of Drummer Lee Rigby on Wednesday, who was hacked to death in broad daylight in south-east London.
The two men suspected of killing the 25-year-old are still in hospital in a stable condition with non-life threatening injuries, having been shot by officers at the scene.
NIFF development officer Neelam Aggarwal-Singh said: “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victim’s family. This act of violence has no place within any of the faiths and we know that religious leaders, locally and nationally have expressed their condemnation and horror.
“In the wake of this terrible attack, NIFF shares a commitment to a peaceful, safe and just society and the good relations we have developed over many years will have a vital role to play in strengthening community bonds, and working for greater understanding and mutual support at times of difficulty.”
Northamptonshire Police and Crime Commissioner, Adam Simmonds, has pledged to look at the county’s security arrangements in the wake of the attack.
He tweeted: “A serious sad day in London. Thoughts go out to loved ones. Will be reviewing Northants security arrangements/preparedness with chief constable.”
Meanwhile, The Bishop of Peterborough, the Rt Revd Donald Allister, whose diocese covers Northamptonshire, today issued a statement describing the murder as “appalling”.
He said: “The appalling murder of a soldier in Woolwich has shocked us all. We are grateful for the bravery of our armed forces, emergency services and security services, and we pray for them and their success in maintaining peace and stability.
“I also want to assure our Muslim and other minority communities of our continued determination to build good community relations and deep friendships between those of different religions and ethnic backgrounds.”