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'BNP mirror' Islamic extremists spotted in Tooting (From Your Local Guardian)
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'BNP mirror' Islamic extremists spotted in Tooting
6:40am Wednesday 22nd July 2009
Islamic extremists linked to the anti-armed forces protesters in Luton have been spotted distributing leaflets at Tooting Broadway.
Residents saw them twice in the last two months holding “provocative” placards declaring that Islam was superior to Christianity and capitalism.
The group is thought to have travelled from elsewhere and are banned from every mainstream mosque in this area.
Tooting MP Sadiq Khan said: “What’s important is that these are not locals. They don’t represent true Islam and that’s why I want us all to stay vigilant.
“I call them the mirror of the BNP.
"They divide communities, they don’t unite them.
"Just like the BNP is not a true reflection of white people, this group is not a true reflection on Muslims.”
The group were seen outside Primark two Saturdays ago and outside Tooting Broadway tube a month ago.
According to Mr Khan the group is thought to be linked to al-Muhajiroun, a group which preached hatred against Jews in universities and called the 9/11 bombers the "magnificent 19".
They were banned in 2004, but regrouped under a new name, Islam for the UK, which praised the protesters who jeered at troops returning from Iraq in Luton earlier this year.
Islam for the UK’s website reveals the group held a “roadshow” in Tooting Broadway last month.
Tooting is an ideal target for extremists because of its large Muslim population and it is feared the young and impressionable could be influenced.
One witness said: “I found it very provocative, and very anti-cohesive.
"Tooting is well-known for its inter-racial communities. It should be a mixed community, not an Islamic world.”
Residents are urged to call police if they witness activities aimed at inciting religious or racial hatred.
Sergeant Bryan Connor, of Graveney Safer Neighbourhoods team, said: “The protestors are known to us.
"The situation is being monitored. We are extremely grateful for the tolerance and understanding from the community.”
Islam for the UK have been contacted for comment but have yet to respond.
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Your Say YourLocal Guardian
Jenny1, Tooting says...
10:48am Wed 22 Jul 09
Urban_Angel, says...
11:13pm Wed 22 Jul 09
Jenny1 wrote:I agree entirely.
If these people really are extremists, how dare they come to Tooting. We all live so happily here together and we don't need people like them causing trouble!
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HeadInTheSand, East Mersea says...
7:24am Wed 22 Jul 09
Sadiq Khan and his discredited colleagues in Troughminster are responsible for dividing our communities with their never ending drive for mass immigration. The BNP are a necessary consequence of this and I for one am always very pleased to see them operating in my community.